Victory over Japan tonight in Rabat, Morocco, will crown the Flamingos of Nigeria first-ever world champions at U17 women’s level.
It will also install Nigeria as the first country to win the U17 World Cup for both boys and girls.
After a losing start against Poland to their campaign in Morocco, the Flamingos are now just a game away from the ultimate prize at this level of the game.
They finished as runners-up in a first-round group after victories over defending champions North Korea and Puerto Rico, before they dispatched Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil in the knockout rounds.
The 3-1 over defending champions North Korea was the springboard that got them to surpass the bronze medal finish they achieved four years ago.
It was an emphatic victory that announced their World Cup intentions.
They were as dominant as when they won the WAFU B U17 Girls Tournament prior to the World Cup.
Tonight, the Flamingos will be up against Japan, who posted a perfect record in the group stage with victories and three clean sheets over Zambia, France and Venezuela.
They also accounted for Kenya and Ghana in the knockout rounds, before they ended the reign of champions North Korea 4-1 on penalties after scores stood at 1-1 in regulation time to reach the championship game.
This run proves they have a very organised defense, while also putting away the chances they create upfront.
Japan were 2014 world champions, but were beaten in the final in 2010 and 2016.
The prize is in sight. 👀 #U17WWC https://t.co/i6crqXLn6u
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) November 6, 2026
Like he dared against Brazil in the semifinal, coach Akeem Busari is again most likely to unleash his attacking force of Kemi Adegbuyi, Queen Joseph and Oluebube Umejiaku against Japan.
Bulky striker Umejiaku is the team’s leading scorer with three goals, while Adegbuyi, who has been nominated for the CAF Young Player of the Year Award, and Queen Joseph have been the creative spark upfront.
Such is high quality of this strike force that prolific captain Harmony Chidi has now been consigned to the bench.
The Flamingos have been solid in a defense that parades central defenders Ohunene Sunday and Esther Stephen marshaled by captain Azeezat Oduntan, while the midfield has been boosted by the addition Awawu Bashiru, who scored twice in her first start against Brazil.
Kick-off tonight is 7.30pm.
