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

Bashiru played a crucial role in the victory, scoring twice to help Nigeria overcome their Brazilian opponents at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco. Her outstanding contribution earned her the individual award as the Nigerian team celebrated a significant milestone in their history.

The Flamingos took the lead in the 56th minute when Queen Joseph found the back of the net after receiving a well-timed pass from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi. Nigeria continued to press forward, with Bashiru extending their advantage in the 71st minute through an assist from Joseph.

Nine minutes later, Bashiru completed her brace after Oluebube Umejiaku provided the pass that allowed her to score Nigeria's third goal. Brazil responded late in the encounter, with Greise Kelly reducing the deficit in the 89th minute. However, the Nigerian players maintained their composure until the final whistle to confirm their place in the championship match.

The achievement represents Nigeria's best-ever performance at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. Their previous record was a third-place finish in 2022, when they defeated Germany in the bronze-medal match held in India.

Nigeria's qualification for the final followed an impressive recovery from a disappointing start to the tournament. The Flamingos lost their opening match 2-1 against Poland but responded with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea to advance from their group.

They subsequently defeated Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16 before securing a narrow 1-0 victory against Venezuela in the quarter-finals. Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal through an 89th-minute penalty.

Their triumph over North Korea was particularly remarkable because it ended the defending champions' 18-match unbeaten run in regulation time at the tournament.

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

Nigeria will now meet Japan on Saturday, November 7, with the Flamingos hoping to secure their maiden FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup title and complete a historic campaign.