FIFA President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
The Nigerian youngsters made history by defeating Japan in the final, with goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku securing the title. Japan’s Fuki Ito scored a late consolation goal, but it was not enough to prevent Nigeria from claiming the trophy.
The victory represents a major milestone for African football, making the Flamingos the first African team to win the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. It also marks the first time an African women’s national team has lifted a FIFA World Cup trophy at any level.
Reacting shortly after the final in Rabat, Infantino praised the Nigerian team for their outstanding achievement and celebrated their emergence as world champions.
“Congratulations to Nigeria, world champion U17 Women’s World Cup of FIFA here in Rabat,” the FIFA president said.
He also congratulated Japan on winning the silver medal and DPR Korea for finishing third in the competition. Infantino further commended Morocco for successfully hosting the tournament.
The Flamingos’ remarkable achievement is particularly significant considering how they recovered from defeat in their opening group match to embark on an impressive winning run that eventually took them all the way to the final.
Under the guidance of coach Akeem Busari, the Nigerian team delivered a series of determined performances before overcoming Japan to secure the historic title.
Infantino’s congratulatory message further highlights the importance of the victory, which has placed Nigeria and African women’s football firmly in the global spotlight.
