According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Nigeria's Flamingos have made history by winning the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after defeating Japan 2-1 in a thrilling final in Rabat, Morocco. The victory secured Nigeria's first-ever title in the competition and made the country the first African nation to lift the prestigious trophy.

The Flamingos delivered an impressive performance at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, overcoming a determined Japanese side to achieve a remarkable milestone for Nigerian and African women's football.

Nigeria started the final with confidence and showed their attacking intentions against Japan, who entered the contest hoping to claim the championship. Both teams battled for control, but the Flamingos eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru.

Bashiru produced an effort from outside the penalty area that Japan goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki failed to handle properly. The ball crossed the goal line, giving Nigeria a valuable 1-0 advantage before the half-time break.

The Nigerian youngsters returned for the second half with even greater determination and quickly extended their lead. Just two minutes after the restart, Oluebube Umejiaku found the back of the net in the 47th minute to put the Flamingos 2-0 ahead.

The second goal gave Nigeria a comfortable advantage and placed them in a strong position to secure the championship. However, Japan refused to surrender and continued searching for a way back into the encounter.

Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute when Fuki Ito scored to reduce the deficit to 2-1. The goal brought renewed tension to the closing stages, but Nigeria remained organised defensively and successfully protected their lead until the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Korea DPR secured third place in the tournament after producing a commanding 6-0 victory over Brazil in the third-place playoff.

Kim Won-sim opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Ri Ui-gyong increased the advantage ahead of half-time. Korea DPR continued their dominance after the interval, with Ri Ye-rim and Ri Ui-gyong, who completed her brace, adding to Brazil's difficulties.

Yu Jong-hyang and Ri Kyong-im also found the net late in the encounter to complete an emphatic victory. Brazil consequently finished fourth, while Korea DPR claimed the bronze medal.

Nigeria's journey to the championship was particularly impressive considering how the tournament began. The Flamingos suffered a 2-1 defeat against Poland in their opening fixture, raising questions about their chances of progressing deep into the competition.

However, the Nigerian team responded positively to that setback, recording victories over Puerto Rico, Korea DPR, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil before overcoming Japan in the final.

Their six consecutive victories after the opening defeat demonstrated their resilience, consistency and determination throughout the competition.

The triumph represents a major breakthrough for Nigeria, whose youth teams have continued to play an important role in the development of women's football.

By defeating Japan in the final, the Flamingos have not only secured their first U-17 Women's World Cup title but also delivered a historic achievement for the entire African continent.

The victory in Morocco will undoubtedly remain a significant moment in Nigerian football history, as the Flamingos bring home a trophy that has never previously been won by an African nation.