Nigeria make history with first African women’s World Cup triumph

Nigeria created history on Saturday by becoming the first African nation to win a women’s World Cup at any age level, beating Japan 2-1 in the Under-17 final in Rabat, Morocco.

The Flamingos took control against a Japan side that won the tournament in 2014 and was appearing in its fourth final. Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute, with her long-range effort proving too difficult for goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki to handle.

Nigeria doubled their advantage just two minutes after half-time. Oluebube Umejiaku showed composure to lift the ball over Kadowaki and put her side in a commanding position.

Japan reduced the deficit with 10 minutes remaining when Fuki Ito scored, but Akeem Busari’s team held on to secure a landmark victory.

The result ends a long wait for an African nation to win a women’s world title. Nigeria’s Falconets had reached the Women’s Under-20 World Cup final in 2010 and 2014, but lost to Germany on both occasions.

At Under-17 level, the Flamingos’ previous best finish had been third place in 2022.

Nigeria are also now the first African country to win the Under-17 World Cup in both the men’s and women’s categories. The country’s men have lifted the trophy five times, in 1985, 1993, 2007, 2013 and 2015.

The achievement is particularly notable given Nigeria’s difficult start to this tournament. They were beaten 2-0 by Poland in their opening match before recovering to establish themselves as serious contenders.

They defeated defending champions North Korea 3-1 in the group stage, then overcame Brazil by the same scoreline in the semi-finals. Victory over Japan completed their progress through the competition on Moroccan soil.

Umejiaku was named the tournament’s best player after playing a central role in Nigeria’s campaign. Her goal in the final proved decisive and capped a breakthrough tournament for a new generation of Nigerian players.

The victory in Morocco gives Nigeria its first women’s world title and offers a significant milestone for women’s football across Africa.