Nigeria’s Flamingos at the weekend wrote their names in gold and opened a historic chapter in African football by defeating Japan 2-1 in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to become the first African nation to lift the prestigious trophy.

Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the second half (47th) secured the victory for the young lads at the prestigious Mohammed VI Football Complex.

The 2-1 win by the Flamingos against an ambitious Japanese side makes Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Before the final, NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade had charged the players to keep their eyes on the prize and reminding them that they are on the verge of making history as the first African team to win a women’s World Cup at any level.

“We are all behind you — the National Sports Commission, the Federal Government, your families and millions of Nigerians. Keep your eyes on the ball till the very end,” he said.

This advice may have made the entire team to dig deep and eventually emerge victorious.

President Bola Tinubu, who congratulated the side after their semi-final win over Brazil, had also urged them onward, saying, “I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title… Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!”

Head coach Akeem Busari, who guided the side through five consecutive victories after the opening loss, had emphasised focus and finishing the job and today, the rest is history.

The Flamingos’ journey to victory did not come easy following their initial loss at the group stage and wins over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela, and a commanding 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil.

Their success underscores growing strength in Nigerian women’s youth football and delivers a landmark moment for the continent.

Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora, have expressed their pleasure, telling the Flamingos, “we are proud of you as we await your triumphant return back home.”