Nigeria’s under‑17 women’s team, the Flamingos, captured the 2026 FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup by defeating Japan 2‑1 in the final staged in Rabat on Saturday night, becoming the first African side ever to win the tournament. The victory was celebrated by Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who took to social media to hail the historic triumph.
The match opened with Awawu Bashiru giving Nigeria the lead six minutes before halftime with a looping finish. Early in the second half, Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the advantage two minutes after the break, putting the Flamingos firmly in control. Japan reduced the deficit ten minutes from the end through Fuki Ito, but the Nigerian side held on to secure the win.
Coach Akeem Busari’s side earned widespread praise from Ajibade, who posted on X:
“WORLD CHAMPIONS! You made history, and you made all of Nigeria proud. I’m so proud of every one of you. The future of Nigerian football is here. Congratulations, Flamingos.”
The triumph marks a milestone for African football, as the Flamingos join the elite ranks of world champions and demonstrate the growing strength of Nigeria’s youth development programs. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has long been a powerhouse in women’s football at senior level, and the U‑17 success is expected to boost investment and interest in the sport across the continent.
Looking ahead, the Flamingos will aim to build on their world‑title win, with many observers noting that the players who shone in Rabat could form the backbone of future Super Falcons squads, further enhancing Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
