Nigeria Win Historic U-17 Women's World Cup

Nigeria's Flamingos have become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, defeating Japan 2–1 in a historic final in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday, 7 November 2026.

Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku secured Nigeria's maiden title in the competition, ending a campaign that began with defeat and concluded with one of the most significant achievements in African women's football.

Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute when Bashiru's looping effort slipped through the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki. Two minutes after the interval, Umejiaku controlled a long pass from Esther Stephen before lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to double the advantage.

Japan responded through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, setting up a tense finish. The Flamingos, however, preserved their narrow lead to secure the championship.

The victory was confirmed by FIFA, which described Nigeria as the first African country to lift the U-17 Women's World Cup trophy. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also congratulated the team, recognising the result as the first FIFA world title won by an African women's team at any age level.

A remarkable recovery

Nigeria's path to the title was far from straightforward.

The Flamingos lost their opening match against Poland before recovering to defeat Puerto Rico, defending champions DPR Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil on their way to the final.

Their victory over Japan completed a run of six consecutive wins after the opening defeat.

Before the 2026 tournament, Nigeria's best performance in the competition had been a third-place finish in 2022. This year's team surpassed that achievement by reaching the final for the first time and ultimately winning the championship.

Umejiaku, whose decisive goal came in the 47th minute, was named Player of the Match and received the tournament's Golden Ball award as its outstanding player. Her four goals during the competition contributed significantly to Nigeria's title-winning campaign.

A milestone for African football

Nigeria's achievement extends beyond the national team.

No African country had previously won the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, making the result a landmark for the continent's women's football development.

The victory also places renewed attention on youth football investment, coaching, player development and the opportunities available to emerging female athletes across Africa.

For Nigeria, the championship offers a new generation of international prospects and a significant sporting achievement at a time when women's football continues to seek stronger institutional and commercial support.

Japan, the 2014 champions, finished runners-up after a determined comeback attempt, while DPR Korea claimed third place with a 6–0 victory over Brazil.

The tournament concluded in Morocco with Nigeria lifting the trophy and establishing a new benchmark for African women's football.