Nigeria clinched the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time after a 2-1 win against Japan in the final held in Morocco on November 7.
The Flamingos took control early, with Awawu Bashiru scoring in the 39th minute to give Nigeria the lead at half‑time. Oluebube Umejiaku added a second just after the break, making it 2-0.
Japan fought back when Fuki Ito netted in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on to secure the title.
Umejiaku finished the tournament with four goals and earned the adidas Golden Ball as the best player.
Other individual awards went to Maddie DiMaria (Golden Boot, 12 goals), Kim Son‑gyong (Golden Glove) and Fuki Ito (Bronze Ball).
Nigeria’s campaign included wins over Puerto Rico, North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil, after an opening defeat to Poland.
North Korea finished third after a 6-0 victory over Brazil in the bronze medal match.
With this triumph, Nigeria becomes the first African country to win the U-17 Women’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone for women’s football on the continent.
