Goals by Bashiru, Umejiaku give Flamingos historic FIFA U17 WWC title
Editor
Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by winning their first-ever FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup title following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan in Saturday’s final in Morocco.
The Nigerian youngsters produced an impressive performance at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco to overcome their Japanese counterparts and secure a historic triumph.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute with a long-range effort that slipped through the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki.
The goal came after Mary Dunstan provided the assist, giving the Flamingos a deserved advantage heading into the half-time interval.
Nigeria carried their momentum into the second half and doubled their lead just two minutes after the restart.
Oluebube Umejiaku showed excellent composure in front of goal in the 47th minute, calmly finishing her opportunity to put the Flamingos 2-0 ahead and strengthen their grip on the contest.
However, Japan refused to surrender and reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense finish to the encounter.
With their two-goal advantage reduced to one, the Nigerian girls had to demonstrate determination and defensive discipline to protect their lead during the closing stages.
They successfully held on to their advantage to secure a memorable victory over Japan and become champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The triumph represents a landmark achievement for Nigerian women’s football, with the Flamingos becoming the first African team to win the competition.
Nigeria’s historic success also follows their impressive 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil, completing a remarkable journey to the top of the world.
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