Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by defeating Japan 2-1 in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup on Saturday to become the first African nation to win the competition.
The Nigerian girls secured the historic triumph at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco, with Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku scoring the decisive goals.
Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute before Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage two minutes into the second half, putting the Flamingos in a commanding position.
Japan, however, refused to surrender without a fight, with Fuki Ito reducing the deficit in the 80th minute.
The Nigerian side remained resolute in the closing stages to preserve their lead and seal the title.
The victory marks a landmark achievement for African football, as Nigeria become the first country from the continent to win the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men’s and women’s categories.
The Flamingos also made history as the first team to win the tournament after losing their opening match.
They had suffered a 2-1 defeat to Poland in the group stage before embarking on an impressive run to the final.
The National Sports Commission congratulated the team, describing the triumph as a defining moment for Nigerian and African women’s football and commending the players for their resilience throughout the competition.
President Bola Tinubu had also urged the team to maintain their fighting spirit ahead of the final, expressing confidence in their ability to secure the trophy after their 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil.
Head coach Akeem Busari had charged his players to remain focused and complete their mission, while forward Queen Joseph, who scored against Brazil, said the team was proud to represent both Nigeria and Africa.
The Flamingos’ campaign featured victories over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea, Mexico and Venezuela, before their emphatic semi-final win against Brazil.
The triumph represents a significant milestone for Nigerian women’s football, with the young champions overcoming an opening defeat to deliver the country and the continent their first title in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
