Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have defeated Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, securing their first-ever title in the competition.

The historic victory was recorded on Saturday at Pitch 3 of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, as the Nigerian side held off a late Japanese fightback to emerge champions.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute with a long-range effort that slipped through the hands of the Japanese goalkeeper.

The Flamingos doubled their advantage shortly after the restart, with Oluebube Umejiaku finding the net in the 47th minute to give Nigeria a comfortable two-goal lead.

Japan responded in the 80th minute when Fuki Ito scored to reduce the deficit and revive hopes of a comeback.

The Japanese team mounted pressure in search of an equaliser, but Nigeria’s defence held firm to preserve the lead and secure the championship.

The Flamingos also came close to extending their advantage late in the encounter, but their effort from a corner kick struck the crossbar.

The victory marks a historic milestone for Nigerian women’s youth football, with the Flamingos claiming their maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup crown.