According to a report by ESPN on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Nigeria's Flamingos have achieved a historic milestone by defeating Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco. The Nigerian team secured their first championship title in the competition, becoming the first African nation to achieve the remarkable feat. In the third-place match, Korea DPR also produced an impressive performance, defeating Brazil 6-0 to claim the bronze medal.

The highly anticipated final brought together two impressive teams that had demonstrated their abilities throughout the tournament. Japan entered the encounter hoping to secure the championship, but Nigeria delivered a determined performance to overcome their opponents and make history

The Flamingos started the match with confidence and gradually established themselves as a serious attacking threat. Their efforts eventually produced the opening goal in the 39th minute when Awawu Bashiru found the back of the net.

Bashiru demonstrated excellent technique by releasing a powerful effort from outside the penalty area. Japan's goalkeeper, Kou Kadowaki, was unable to prevent the ball from entering the net, giving Nigeria a deserved advantage.

The Nigerian youngsters maintained their concentration for the remainder of the first half, ensuring that they entered the break with a 1-0 lead. Their performance provided a strong foundation for the second half as they continued pursuing their historic ambition.

Nigeria wasted little time after the restart before increasing their advantage. In the 47th minute, Oluebube Umejiaku produced an important attacking contribution by scoring the second goal for the Flamingos.

Her excellent finish made the score 2-0 and placed Nigeria in a commanding position. The goal also increased the pressure on Japan, who needed to respond quickly to avoid losing control of the final.

Japan subsequently increased their attacking efforts and continued looking for opportunities to reduce the deficit. Their persistence finally paid off in the 80th minute when Fuki Ito scored to bring the scoreline to 2-1.

The late goal made the remaining minutes particularly challenging for Nigeria, as Japan attempted to force an equaliser. However, the Flamingos remained disciplined and protected their advantage until the referee brought the encounter to an end.

Nigeria's victory confirmed their position as champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, marking an unforgettable achievement for the country's football history.

Meanwhile, Korea DPR secured third place after producing a dominant display against Brazil in the bronze medal match. The Asian nation scored six unanswered goals to complete a remarkable 6-0 victory.

Kim Won-sim opened the scoring in the 12th minute, while Ri Ui-gyong added the second goal before the half-time break. Korea DPR continued their impressive attacking performance after the restart, with Ri Ye-rim finding the net before Ri Ui-gyong completed her brace.

Yu Jong-hyang and Ri Kyong-im subsequently contributed the fifth and sixth goals to complete Brazil's heavy defeat.

The final standings therefore saw Nigeria finish first, Japan occupy second position, Korea DPR secure third place and Brazil settle for fourth.

The Flamingos' achievement becomes even more impressive when considering their difficult beginning to the tournament. Nigeria initially suffered a 2-1 defeat against Poland but responded positively by winning their remaining matches against Puerto Rico, Korea DPR, Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil and Japan.

Their remarkable recovery demonstrated the team's determination and ability to overcome difficult situations.

Ultimately, Nigeria's triumph represents a major breakthrough for African football, as the Flamingos have brought the country's first FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup trophy home and established a new chapter in the history of the competition.