Nigeria’s Flamingos have secured a landmark victory for African football, overcoming Japan 2-1 in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final to become the first African team to win the tournament.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s lead shortly after the break, finding the net in the 47th minute. Japan’s Fuki Ito scored in the 80th minute, but Nigeria kept its advantage through the closing stages.
The title adds another milestone to Nigeria’s football record: the country is now the first African nation to win FIFA U-17 World Cups in both the men’s and women’s competitions. The Flamingos also achieved a rare feat, recovering from a 2-1 loss to Poland in their opening group match to win the tournament.
The National Sports Commission congratulated the team, describing the victory as a landmark moment for Nigerian and African women’s football and commending the players’ determination.
Support had also come from President Bola Tinubu, who urged the squad to carry its fighting spirit into the final after its semi-final win over Brazil. Before the match, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade likewise encouraged the players to seize the opportunity to make history.
Head coach Akeem Busari had called on the team to stay focused and complete its campaign with the trophy. Nigeria did so after building momentum from the opening defeat, including a 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals.
The Flamingos’ run also featured wins against Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea, Mexico and Venezuela. Their victory over Japan caps a memorable campaign and marks a significant achievement for Nigeria and African women’s football.
Congratulations to Nigeria’s Flamingos on this historic achievement! You’ve made history, brought home the glory and inspired a new generation across Nigeria and Africa. We’re incredibly proud of the team and everything you’ve accomplished.
Live with Purpose, Love with Passion. Remember to be happy
One ❤️❤️❤️
Rose Ajieh
