By Peace Udugba — The Daily Torch Media
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have emerged champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Morocco.
The victory handed Nigeria the historic title, with Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku scoring the decisive goals to secure the triumph for the West African nation.
Japan fought back through Fuki Ito, who found the net, but her effort was not enough to prevent the Asian side from losing the final.
Nigeria’s triumph was further highlighted by Umejiaku’s outstanding performance throughout the tournament, which earned her the Golden Ball award as the competition’s best player.
Meanwhile, United States forward Maddie DiMaria claimed the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament’s highest goalscorer with 12 goals.
DPR Korea’s Kim Son-gyong won the Golden Glove award for the best goalkeeper, while Japan received the FIFA Fair Play Trophy.
Full List of Award Winners
- Golden Ball: Oluebube Umejiaku (Nigeria)
- Silver Ball: Yu Jong-hyang (DPR Korea)
- Bronze Ball: Fuki Ito (Japan)
- Golden Boot: Maddie DiMaria (USA)
- Silver Boot: Yu Jong-hyang (DPR Korea)
- Golden Glove: Kim Son-gyong (DPR Korea)
- FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Japan
Nigeria’s victory marks a significant milestone for women’s youth football in the country and represents a proud moment for the Flamingos, their supporters and Nigerian football.
