Nigeria’s Flamingos have won the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco.
The victory makes Nigeria the first African nation to win the competition, marking a historic achievement for the country and African women’s football.
The Flamingos took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, who put Nigeria ahead before the end of the first half.
Nigeria strengthened their advantage shortly after the restart when Oluebube Umejiaku scored in the 47th minute to make it 2-0.
Japan responded in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense closing period as the Asian side pushed for an equaliser.
However, Nigeria held on to their lead until the final whistle to secure the 2-1 victory and lift the trophy.
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Nigeria make history in Morocco
The triumph represents Nigeria’s best-ever performance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, surpassing the bronze medal finish achieved by the Flamingos in 2022.
The team’s journey to the title featured five victories and one defeat in six matches.
Nigeria began the tournament with a 2-1 loss to Poland but recovered with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions Korea DPR in the group stage.
They went on to defeat Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16 and Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter-finals before recording a 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals.
The win over Japan completes a remarkable comeback campaign and gives Nigeria its first title in the history of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.