2026 U-17 WWC: Flamingos make history, defeat Japan to win first-ever title

Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by winning the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat on Saturday night.

The victory marks the first time an African nation has lifted the prestigious title.

Japan started the encounter brightly, putting the Nigerian defence under pressure in the opening stages.

However, Akeem Busari’s side gradually grew into the game, as Olubebe Umejiaku and Awawu Bashiru both missed promising opportunities to give Nigeria the lead.

Umejiaku came close to breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute, but her header crashed against the crossbar.

Nigeria eventually took the lead a minute later through Bashiru, whose long-range effort found the back of the net to give the Flamingos a 1-0 advantage.

The Nigerian youngsters held on to their lead until the half-time break.

Two minutes into the second half, Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage with a brilliant finish, putting the Flamingos firmly in control of the contest.

Japan refused to surrender and mounted a late fightback, with Fuki Ito pulling one back in the 80th minute to set up a tense closing period.

However, the Flamingos stood firm to preserve their lead and secure a historic 2-1 victory, becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.