Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by winning their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title following a 2-1 victory over Japan in the final in Morocco.
The Nigerian girls produced an impressive performance at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, with goals from Awau Bashiru and Olubebe Umejiaku securing the historic triumph, while Fuki Ito scored Japan’s only goal.
The victory marked a remarkable achievement for Akeem Busari’s side, who defeated Korea DPR and Brazil on their way to the final before overcoming Japan to lift the trophy.
Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute when Bashiru’s speculative effort from the edge of the penalty area slipped through the goalkeeper’s gloves and found the back of the net.
The Flamingos doubled their advantage just two minutes into the second half, with Umejiaku producing a composed finish in the 47th minute.
Japan fought back and reduced the deficit through Ito, who capitalised on a corner kick to give the Asian side renewed hope.
However, Nigeria held firm for the remainder of the encounter to secure a historic 2-1 victory and their maiden title in the competition.
The triumph is particularly significant as Nigeria became the first team to win the tournament after losing their opening match.
The Flamingos’ achievement also represents an improvement on their bronze-medal finish at the 2022 edition of the competition.
