Nigeria’s Flamingos made history on Saturday night after edging out their Japanese counterparts to become the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The tournament final took place at the Stade de Marrakech in Morocco, where the Nigerian girls defeated Japan 2-1 in a pulsating encounter to secure the country’s first-ever title in the competition.
It is a huge feat for Nigerian football, as the Flamingos also became the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup since its inception in 2008.
Nigeria had a fairytale run to the final, beating formidable opponents like Brazil in the semi-finals to set up the clash against Japan.
Both teams started the game with high intensity, but it was the Flamingos who scored first in the first half after the Japanese keeper split a long-range effort from forward Awawu Bashiru into her net in the 39th minute.
The Flamingos struck early in the second half to extend their lead and consolidate their advantage. In the 47th minute, Oluebube Umejaiku doubled Nigeria’s lead after calmly dinking the ball over an onrushing Japanese goalie after a diagonal pass left her through on goal.
Japan managed to pull one back in the 79th minute to reduce the deficit, but the goal proved to be a mere consolation as the Nigerian defence held firm until the final whistle.
The teenagers’ brilliant display and triumph have drawn praise and encomium from FIFA president, Gianni Infantino and prominent Nigerians like President Bola Tinubu, former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Reacting to the girls’ victory, President Tinubu said the triumph of the team has brought prestige and honour to Nigeria and the African continent.
He said: “Our young girls have conquered the world, made history and brought immense honour to Nigeria and the African continent.
“I followed your remarkable journey throughout the tournament in Morocco, and I remember your promise after the semi-final victory to bring the trophy home. Today, you have kept that promise with courage, discipline and unwavering belief in yourselves.
“Your triumph goes far beyond football. Millions of young Nigerian girls will look at what you have achieved and know that they, too, can dream big, compete with the best and reach the pinnacle of their chosen fields.
“I congratulate every member of this exceptional team, the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission and everyone who contributed to this historic achievement.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I salute our world champions. You have written a glorious new chapter in our nation’s sporting history.”
Former vice president and the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said the achievement of the girls was a reminder of what talent can become if properly harnessed. He thanked the Flamingos for giving Nigeria what he called “the moment of joy and unity”.
He said: “Our Flamingos have made history! I warmly congratulate Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team on their 2–1 victory over Japan to claim our first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
“Captain Harmony Chidi spoke of a dream that would make her teammates and country proud. Tonight, that dream belongs to every Nigerian. I salute her, her teammates, Coach Akeem Busari, and the entire technical and support staff for this unforgettable achievement.
“These young women remind us of what Nigerian talent can achieve when it is nurtured and allowed to flourish. May their triumph inspire more girls to pursue their dreams with confidence and courage.”
Reacting to the historic sporting accomplishment of the girls, former Anambra State governor and the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, said the girls’ achievement has earned them “a special place in the hearts of Nigerians.”
He hailed the hard work, dedication and resilience of the players, describing them as exceptional.
He said, “I extend my warmest congratulations to our exceptional Flamingos on their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
“To our talented young stars, thank you for raising our flag high and bringing immense joy to our nation. Your remarkable talent, resilience, hard work and dedication have earned you a special place in the hearts of Nigerians.
“You have made our nation proud, and we truly appreciate your outstanding efforts.
Congratulations, champions!”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also congratulated the Flamingos following their triumph.
Reacting to the historic achievement, Infantino hailed the Flamingos for becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, describing their victory as well deserved
“Congratulations to Nigeria, the world champion U-17 Women’s World Cup of FIFA here in Rabat. First African team to ever win a (FIFA) Women’s U-17 World Cup — so many congratulations to Nigeria. Well deserved in the final,” he said.
