‘You have made Nigeria proud’ – Nigeria coach Busari Ishola salutes Flamingos after historic U17 Women’s World Cup win

Nigeria U-17 women’s national team head coach Busari Hakeem Ishola has paid an emotional tribute to his players, technical crew and Nigerians following their historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup triumph.

The Flamingos made history by becoming the first African nation to win the tournament, defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Morocco to claim Nigeria’s first-ever global title at this level.

Days after guiding the team to the landmark achievement, Busari took to social media on Tuesday evening to express his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the country’s remarkable campaign.

The Nigerian coach described the opportunity to serve his country and achieve something unprecedented in women’s football as a privilege he would cherish for the rest of his life.

He also stressed that the significance of the victory extended beyond the trophy, highlighting the commitment, resilience and talent of the players alongside the dedication of his technical team.

“Serving Nigeria and making history through dedication, passion and teamwork is a privilege I will forever cherish.

“This victory goes beyond the trophy. It reflects the commitment, resilience and exceptional talents of our players, as well as the dedication of our outstanding Technical Crew,” he said.

Busari acknowledges Tinubu, NFF and football authorities

The Flamingos boss also recognised the contributions of Nigeria’s football and sports administrators, expressing appreciation to FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

He credited the institutions for their support, trust and belief in the team’s journey, acknowledging the importance of their backing in helping the young players achieve their ambitions on the global stage.

“My heartfelt appreciation goes to FIFA, CAF, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for their invaluable support, trust and belief in this journey,” Busari added.

His recognition also highlighted the collective effort behind Nigeria’s success, with the players and technical crew delivering when it mattered most in Morocco.

Flamingos hailed as inspiration for millions of young girls

Beyond celebrating the historic achievement, Busari reserved special praise for his players, describing them as a new generation of role models for girls across Nigeria and the African continent.

The Flamingos’ triumph represents a significant breakthrough for African women’s football, ending the continent’s long wait for a title in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Their achievement also provides fresh inspiration for young female footballers aspiring to compete and succeed at the highest level.

“To our World Champions, the Flamingos, you have made Nigeria proud and inspired millions of young girls. You are the future!” he stated.

The coach further extended his appreciation to journalists, supporters and Nigerians who followed the team’s progress, offered prayers and celebrated their success.

He insisted that the historic accomplishment belonged to everyone who supported the team throughout its journey.

“To the media, our supporters and every Nigerian who prayed and celebrated with us, this victory belongs to you all.

“Thank you for making history possible.

“God bless Nigeria. God bless the World Champions!” he concluded.

How Nigeria conquered the world

Nigeria secured the historic title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan in the final on Saturday.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute after connecting with a pass from Mary Dunstan to give the West Africans a first-half advantage.

The Flamingos strengthened their position shortly after the restart when Oluebube Umejiaku doubled their lead in the 47th minute, finishing a move initiated by Esther Stephen.

Japan threatened a late comeback when Fuki Ito reduced the deficit in the 80th minute, but Nigeria’s defence held firm through five minutes of added time to secure the victory.

The triumph crowned an outstanding campaign for Busari’s side and delivered a historic first for African football, with Nigeria becoming the first country from the continent to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.