According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Nigeria's young football sensation, Awawu Bashiru, played an important role in the Flamingos' historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after helping the team defeat Japan 2-1 in the final in Morocco.

Bashiru was one of Nigeria's standout performers during the competition, producing impressive displays that helped the team overcome several difficult opponents and eventually become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

The midfielder made another important contribution in the final against Japan, opening the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute. Her effort from outside the penalty area proved difficult for Japan's goalkeeper, Kou Kadowaki, who failed to handle the ball cleanly as it found its way into the net.

Her goal gave the Flamingos a valuable advantage and helped them approach the half-time break with confidence. Nigeria subsequently doubled their lead through Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute, although Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute.

The Japanese team attempted to find an equaliser during the closing stages, but Nigeria remained determined and successfully protected their advantage until the final whistle.

Bashiru's performance in the final followed her outstanding display against Brazil in the semi-finals, where she scored twice to help Nigeria secure a 3-1 victory and qualify for their first-ever final in the competition.

Interestingly, FIFA confirmed that Bashiru received the Player of the Match award following that impressive performance against Brazil. The recognition was particularly remarkable because she had played only 73 minutes as a substitute in the tournament before being handed her first starting opportunity in the semi-final.

She repaid the confidence of head coach Akeem Busari by delivering two important goals and helping Nigeria overcome a strong Brazilian side.

Her emergence became one of the major talking points of the Flamingos' campaign, demonstrating the importance of squad depth and the impact that individual players can make at crucial moments.

The victory over Japan has now given Bashiru and her teammates a special place in Nigerian and African football history. Nigeria had previously finished third in the 2022 edition, but the young players went a step further in Morocco by winning the championship.

Bashiru's goal in the final, alongside her remarkable semi-final performance, will remain an important part of the story of Nigeria's historic triumph.

At a young age, the Nigerian star has demonstrated her attacking quality, confidence and ability to deliver on the biggest stage. Her contribution has helped the Flamingos achieve a dream that will inspire future generations of African female footballers.