Nigeria’s Flamingos have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Nigerian girls defeated Japan 2-1 in a thrilling final at the Stade de Marrakech on Saturday night to secure the country’s first-ever title in the competition’s history.
It is a monumental achievement for Nigerian football, as the Flamingos become the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup since its inception in 2008.
Nigeria enjoyed a fairytale run to the final, overcoming formidable opponents including Brazil in the semi-finals to set up the clash with a resilient Japanese side.
Both teams started with high intensity, showcasing technical skill and tactical discipline, but it was the Flamingos who broke the deadlock in the first half.
A well-orchestrated attack saw forward Queen Joseph calmly slot the ball into the net in the 28th minute to give Nigeria a deserved lead.
Japan, known for their passing game and never-say-die spirit, fought back and drew level early in the second half through a clinical finish from their captain.
With the scores tied, the match became a cagey affair as both teams searched for a winner.
Nigeria’s relentless pressure paid off in the 75th minute when Awuwu Bashiru, one of the Flamingos’ standout players in the tournament, scored a spectacular goal to restore the lead.
The final whistle was met with wild celebrations from the Nigerian players and coaching staff, who have written their names into the history books.
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