FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup: Nigeria beats Japan to become Africa's first champion

Nigeria won the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco on November 7, 2026, defeating Japan 2-1 in the final. Awawu Bashiru scored in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku added a goal early in the second half, before Fuki Ito pulled one back late for Japan. The Flamingos became the first African team to win the tournament, which began in 2008, after beating North Korea and Brazil on their run to the title. Nigeria had lost its opening match 2-1 to Poland before going on to win five consecutive games.