Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by defeating Brazil 3-1 to book their place in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Nigerian youngsters produced a commanding second-half performance in Wednesday’s semi-final clash in Salé, becoming the first African nation to reach the final of the competition.
After a goalless first half, Queen Joseph broke the deadlock in the 56th minute to put Nigeria ahead before Awawu Bashiru took centre stage with a stunning brace.
Bashiru doubled Nigeria’s advantage in the 71st minute and struck again in the 80th minute to put the Flamingos firmly in control.
Brazil managed a late consolation through Graise Kelly in the 89th minute, but it was too little, too late as Nigeria secured a memorable 3-1 victory.
The historic triumph marks a major milestone for Nigerian women’s football, with the Flamingos surpassing their previous best performance of winning bronze at the 2022 edition.
Nigeria will now face Japan in Saturday’s final, with the West African side chasing its first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
Having conquered Brazil to reach the final, the Flamingos are now just one victory away from etching their names in Nigerian and African football history.
