Nigeria’s Flamingos wrote a golden chapter in African football history on Saturday, defeating Japan 2-1 in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to become the first African nation to lift the prestigious trophy.
Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku early in the second half (47th) secured the victory at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.
Japan pulled one back late through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held firm to complete a remarkable tournament turnaround.
The triumph also makes Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men’s and women’s categories.
The Flamingos further became the first team in the competition’s history to lose their opening match and still go on to claim the title, having recovered from a 2-1 group-stage defeat to Poland.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) led the wave of congratulations.
“This remarkable achievement marks a defining moment for Nigerian and African women’s football,” the Commission stated, praising the team’s resilience and historic feat.
Ahead of the final, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade had charged the players: “Keep your eyes on the prize. You are on the verge of writing your names in history as the first African team to win a women’s World Cup at any level. We are all behind you — the National Sports Commission, the Federal Government, your families and millions of Nigerians. Keep your eyes on the ball till the very end.”
President Bola Tinubu, who congratulated the side after their semi-final win over Brazil, had urged them onward, saying, “I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title… Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!”
Head coach Akeem Busari, who guided the side through five consecutive victories after the opening loss, had emphasised focus and finishing the job.
“It is just for us to concentrate, let’s put the icing on the cake… let’s be focused and let’s finish the job because the job is not yet done,” he said before the final.
Reflecting on the campaign’s character earlier, Busari noted: “Reaching the final is a plus for our country, it’s a plus for our football. We are happy… We just really want to pick up the trophy.”
Player Queen Joseph, who scored in the semi-final against Brazil, captured the broader significance: “I am super-proud of myself and my team because we made history by reaching the final. We aren’t here just representing Nigeria, we’re here representing Africa as a whole.”
The Flamingos’ path included wins over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela, and a commanding 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil. Their success underscores growing strength in Nigerian women’s youth football and delivers a landmark moment for the continent.
PUNCH
