Nigeria Make History, Become First African Nation to Win FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

By David Okpokwasili |Ichie Times

Nigeria have made history in international football after the country’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, became the first African side to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Nigerian youngsters achieved the historic feat on Saturday defeating Japan 2-1 in the final of the 2026 competition held in Rabat, Morocco.

The victory marks a major milestone for African women’s football, as Nigeria becomes the first African nation to claim the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

Nigeria’s victory was sealed by goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, who scored on either side of half-time.

Bashiru opened the scoring before Umejiaku extended Nigeria’s advantage in the 47th minute with a well-taken right-footed finish.

Japan mounted a late challenge, pulling one goal back in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held firm in the closing stages to secure the historic victory.

Umejiaku’s impressive performance also earned her the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player.

Her goal in the final was her fourth of the competition.

The triumph was particularly remarkable considering Nigeria’s difficult start to the tournament, having lost their opening match against Poland.

The Flamingos, however, recovered strongly, recording six consecutive victories, including a crucial group-stage win over defending champions, North Korea.

Their journey to the title culminated in a final against Japan, which was seeking its second championship after winning the competition in 2014.

Reacting to the historic achievement, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino congratulated Nigeria, describing the victory as well deserved.

He also congratulated Japan for finishing as runners-up and North Korea, which secured third place after defeating Brazil 6-0.

The final was equally significant because it marked the first time an African national team faced an Asian opponent in a FIFA tournament final.

Nigeria’s latest achievement represents a landmark moment for women’s football on the continent and reinforces the country’s growing reputation as a major force in international youth football.

It also provides fresh inspiration for young female footballers across Africa, demonstrating that the continent can compete successfully for the highest honours in the global game.