According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Nigeria's Flamingos have emerged as champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after recording an impressive 2-1 victory over Japan in the final. Meanwhile, Korea DPR finished third following a commanding 6-0 triumph over Brazil in the third-place playoff.

Nigeria made history at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco, by defeating Japan to win their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup trophy. The achievement also made the Flamingos the first African nation to lift the championship since the competition was introduced.

The Nigerian girls entered the final determined to make history, and they demonstrated their quality against a Japanese team that had enjoyed an impressive tournament. Both sides competed strongly during the opening stages, but Nigeria eventually found the breakthrough through Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute.

Bashiru produced a powerful attempt from outside the penalty area, and although Japan's goalkeeper, Kou Kadowaki, attempted to deal with the effort, she failed to prevent the ball from crossing the goal line. The strike gave Nigeria a valuable 1-0 advantage heading into the half-time interval.

The Flamingos continued their impressive display immediately after the restart, extending their lead in the 47th minute. Oluebube Umejiaku demonstrated excellent composure in front of goal to score Nigeria's second goal and put the African champions within reach of a historic victory.

Japan refused to surrender despite falling two goals behind and continued searching for a way back into the contest. Their efforts eventually produced a goal in the 80th minute when Fuki Ito found the back of the net to make the score 2-1.

The late breakthrough created additional pressure for Nigeria, but the Flamingos remained organised and disciplined defensively. They successfully resisted Japan's attempts to find an equaliser, eventually completing a memorable victory and lifting the championship trophy.

Elsewhere, Korea DPR secured the bronze medal after overwhelming Brazil 6-0 in the third-place encounter. Kim Won-sim gave the Asian side an early advantage in the 12th minute before Ri Ui-gyong increased their lead before the interval.

Korea DPR maintained their attacking intensity in the second half, with Ri Ye-rim adding another goal. Ri Ui-gyong subsequently completed her brace before Yu Jong-hyang and Ri Kyong-im contributed further goals to seal an emphatic victory.

The result confirmed Korea DPR's third-place finish, while Brazil ended the competition in fourth position. Japan settled for the silver medal after losing the final to Nigeria.

Nigeria's championship success was particularly remarkable considering that the Flamingos began their campaign with a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Poland. However, they recovered strongly, defeating Puerto Rico, Korea DPR, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil before overcoming Japan in the final.

Their response to the opening defeat demonstrated the team's determination, resilience and remarkable improvement throughout the competition.

Ultimately, Nigeria's victory over Japan represents a historic achievement for the country and the entire African continent. The Flamingos have not only secured their first U-17 Women's World Cup title but have also written their names into history as the first African champions of the tournament.