Nigeria’s U‑17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, made history on Saturday by becoming the first African side to win the FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup, defeating Japan 2‑1 in the final in Rabat, Morocco. The triumph prompted congratulatory messages from President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The decisive match saw Awawu Bashiru open the scoring in the 39th minute, followed by Oluebube Umejiaku’s strike in the 47th minute to give Nigeria a 2‑0 lead. Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held on to secure the 2‑1 victory and lift the trophy.
Rabat capped a remarkable campaign for the Nigerian girls. After an opening defeat to Poland, they rebounded with five consecutive wins, overcoming defending champions North Korea, then Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil, before reaching the historic final.
“What wonderful news to return home to! Our young girls have conquered the world and given Nigerians everywhere another reason to celebrate our great country. To our gallant Flamingos, I say congratulations. You have shown courage, discipline, determination and the Nigerian spirit of never giving up,” President Tinubu said in a statement.
The President’s remarks were echoed by other leaders. Senate President Akpabio hailed the squad as “Nigeria’s Golden Girls,” noting that their success “is a proud moment for the entire African continent.” Peter Obi, speaking on his X account, praised the players’ “remarkable talent, resilience, hard work and dedication,” saying they have earned a special place in the hearts of Nigerians. Governor Okpebholo also joined the chorus of praise, describing the victory as a milestone for Nigerian sport.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
