Nigeria Make History, Crush Brazil 3-1 to Reach Maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Final.
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have achieved a historic milestone after defeating Brazil 3-1 to qualify for their first ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final in Morocco.
The Nigerian youngsters delivered an impressive second half performance in Wednesday’s semi final on November 4, 2026, overcoming their South American opponents to become the first African nation to reach the final of the competition since its introduction in 2008.
After a goalless first half, Queen Joseph broke the deadlock in the 56th minute to give Nigeria the advantage. Awawu Bashiru subsequently doubled the lead in the 71st minute before completing her brace in the 80th minute, putting the Flamingos firmly in control.
Brazil managed to reduce the deficit through Greise Kelly in the 89th minute, but the late goal was insufficient to change the outcome as Nigeria secured a deserved 3-1 victory.
The result represents a significant achievement for Nigerian women’s football, particularly considering the team’s difficult start to the tournament, which included a 2-1 opening defeat to Poland.
Under head coach Akeem Busari, the Flamingos responded with victories over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea and Mexico before overcoming Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter finals. Captain Azeezat Oduntan converted a late penalty against Venezuela to secure Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals.
Nigeria’s victory over Brazil also surpasses the team’s previous best performance at the competition. The Flamingos finished third at the 2022 edition in India after reaching the semi finals.
The achievement further highlights the growing competitiveness of African women’s football at youth level, providing another opportunity for the continent to demonstrate its talent on the global stage.
Following the historic victory, Nigeria will face Japan in Saturday’s final, scheduled for November 7, 2026, as the Flamingos pursue their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
Japan secured its place in the final after defeating defending champions North Korea in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
For Nigeria, the upcoming encounter presents an opportunity to transform a remarkable campaign into a historic championship triumph and establish the Flamingos among the world’s leading youth women’s football teams.
The team has already secured a place in Nigerian football history. However, lifting the trophy would represent an even greater achievement for the players, their coaching crew and African football.