Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, are on the verge of making football history as they take on Japan in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.
The highly anticipated encounter presents Nigeria with an opportunity to win its first-ever title in the competition and become the first African country to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s Women’s World Cup trophy.
The final takes place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Nigerian time.
Under the leadership of Coach Akeem Busari, the Flamingos have enjoyed an impressive campaign, demonstrating determination, attacking quality and resilience on their journey to the final.
Their historic qualification was secured through a remarkable 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals.
The victory not only guaranteed Nigeria at least a silver medal but also surpassed the country’s previous best performance in the competition, when the Flamingos finished third in 2022.
Now, with the ultimate prize within reach, the Nigerian girls are determined to take the final step and write a new chapter in the country’s football history.
For the decisive encounter, Coach Akeem Busari has retained the starting eleven that defeated Brazil, showing confidence in the players who delivered the historic semi-final victory.
Goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho retains her position between the posts, while captain Azeezat Oduntan leads the defence.
Awawu Bashiru, who scored twice against Brazil, also retains her starting position and will be expected to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s attacking efforts.
The Flamingos will be counting on the collective strength of their players to overcome a technically disciplined Japanese side.
Nigeria’s starting eleven is Jane Ijirigho; Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf; Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Awawu Bashiru; Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku.
On the other side, Japan arrive in the final equally determined to claim their maiden title.
The Asian side booked their place in the final after a dramatic semi-final encounter against Korea DPR.
The match ended 1-1 before Japan secured a 4-1 victory in the penalty shootout.
Japan have made four changes to their starting eleven for the final.
Wara Shimizu, Sayana Oshita, Rara Higuchi and Yuka Kishida come into the team, replacing Anri Ito, Himari Nishi, Keiko Kitajima and Nanami Kurita.
Their starting eleven features Kou Kadowaki in goal; Wara Shimizu, Honoka Yotsumoto, Sana Morota and Sayana Oshita in defence; Rara Higuchi, Harura Matsushita, Yuka Kishida and Fuki Ito in midfield; while Mashiro Yamaji and Mei Hanashiro lead the attack.
Both countries are pursuing their first-ever championship at this level, making the encounter particularly significant for the young footballers.
For Nigeria, however, the stakes go beyond winning a trophy.
A victory would represent a historic breakthrough for African women’s youth football and further demonstrate the growing potential of young female footballers across the continent.
The Flamingos have already captured the attention of Nigerians with their impressive performances, particularly their emphatic victory over Brazil.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, expectations are high, with millions of football fans hoping to see the Nigerian girls bring home the trophy.
Can the Flamingos overcome Japan and make history as the first African champions of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup?
Nigeria is standing behind you.
Go, Flamingos! Bring the trophy home!
