Japan’s head coach, Sadayoshi Shirai, has admitted that Nigeria’s Flamingos were a formidable opponent after his team suffered a 2-1 defeat in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Shirai acknowledged that the Nigerian girls had superior pace, strength and physical power, admitting that his players struggled to contain their attacking threat at crucial moments of the encounter.
Nigeria made history on Saturday by defeating Japan to clinch their maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, becoming the first African nation to win the competition.
The Flamingos took control of the final through Awawu Bashiru, who broke the deadlock in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage just two minutes into the second half.
Japan mounted a late challenge, with Fuki Ito pulling one back in the 80th minute. However, the Nigerian youngsters held their ground to seal a historic triumph in Rabat.
Reacting after the final, Shirai openly acknowledged Nigeria’s quality, conceding that his team found it difficult to cope with the Flamingos’ pace and physical approach.
“First of all, I have to say that Nigeria were a very strong team. We understood their strengths, but there were moments when they managed to get in behind our defence,” he said.
He further praised his players for their determination despite the defeat, noting that they battled until the final whistle against a physically imposing Nigerian side.
“Even so, I think our players fought incredibly hard until the very end, doing everything they could to cope with Nigeria’s speed and physical power,” he added.
The Japanese tactician also suggested that an earlier goal could have changed the complexion of the encounter, giving his side a better opportunity to challenge for the trophy.
Despite the disappointment, Shirai urged his players to take pride in their performances throughout the tournament, insisting that their fighting spirit would inspire others.
“I want them to be proud of themselves. The way they fought until the very end of this World Cup will have inspired many people, and I hope they can take confidence from that,” he said.
