According to a report by FIFA.com on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Nigeria midfielder Awawu Bashiru has been named Player of the Match following her brilliant performance in the Flamingos' historic 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-final of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

Bashiru scored twice to help Nigeria secure their first-ever place in the final of the competition after an impressive display at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco on Wednesday.

The Flamingos took the lead in the 56th minute through Queen Joseph, who calmly converted a pass from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi to put Nigeria ahead.

Bashiru extended the advantage in the 71st minute, with Joseph turning provider for the midfielder's first goal of the encounter. She then completed her brace nine minutes later after receiving an assist from Oluebube Umejiaku to give Nigeria a commanding 3-0 lead.

Brazil managed to reduce the deficit through Greise Kelly in the 89th minute, but Nigeria maintained their advantage until the final whistle to record a memorable victory and secure their place in the championship match.

The result represents a major milestone for Nigerian women's football, as the Flamingos have reached the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup final for the first time in their history.

Their previous best achievement came in 2022, when they finished third after defeating Germany in the bronze-medal match in India.

Nigeria's progress to this year's final has been impressive, particularly considering the difficult start to their campaign. The Flamingos suffered a 2-1 defeat against Poland in their opening match but responded strongly with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea to advance from the group stage.

They continued their impressive run by defeating Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16 before securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals. Captain Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 89th minute.

Their victory over North Korea was another significant achievement, as it brought an end to the defending champions' 18-match unbeaten run in regulation time at the tournament.

Meanwhile, Japan booked the remaining place in the final after overcoming North Korea in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in their semi-final encounter.

Nigeria will now face Japan in Saturday's final, with the Flamingos determined to complete their historic campaign by winning their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup trophy.