Flamingos Make History, Win Nigeria’s First U-17 Women’s World Cup title

Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by winning their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco.

Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku gave Nigeria a two-goal advantage before Japan mounted a late challenge. Still, the Flamingos held on to secure a landmark victory at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

Japan is champions in 2014 and runners-up in 2010 and 2016.

The triumph makes Nigeria the first African country to win the U-17 Women’s World Cup, ending the continent’s long wait for the title and giving the Flamingos their best-ever finish in the competition.

Coach Akeem Busari’s side recovered with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions Korea DPR in the group stage before defeating Mexico in the Round of 16 and Venezuela in the quarter-finals.

The victory completes a remarkable turnaround for the Flamingos, whose campaign began with a 2-1 defeat to Poland.

Having lost their opening match to Poland, the Nigerian youngsters responded with a remarkable run of victories to reach the final. They completed that recovery in style by overcoming one of the tournament’s most successful teams.

For Nigeria, however, the wait is over. The Flamingos have not only claimed their maiden world crown but also delivered a breakthrough achievement for African women’s football.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe were both in the stands to witness coach Akeem Busari-led Flamingos write a new chapter in women’s football.