Nigeria defeated Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in a thrilling final on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Both sides started the game on a high note, pressing for an early goal as they sought to settle into the match and avoid coming under pressure in the keenly contested final.

However, the African side took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, who converted a pass from Mary Dunstan to put Nigeria ahead.

Ghana to host Somalia at Essipong Stadium for 2027 AFCON qualifiers – Kurt Okraku

Shortly after the restart, Nigeria continued to push forward, and Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the team's advantage in the 47th minute following a move initiated by Esther Stephen.

Japan responded with intense pressure but initially struggled to pose a major threat. Their persistence eventually paid off, however, as Fuki Ito pulled one back in the 80th minute to set up a tense finish.

Nigeria held on despite Japan's late pressure to secure a 2-1 victory, making history as the first African nation to win the tournament.

Meanwhile, North Korea defeated Brazil 6-0 to claim the bronze medal as the tournament came to a close.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe were in attendance as the trophy was presented to Nigeria, whose players celebrated jubilantly.

Watch the highlights below:

ICYMI 🚨

How the Nigeria 🇳🇬 🦅 U17 female team beat Japan 2-1 to lift the first FIFA U17 World Cup 🏆.

https://t.co/q66IGrmfdz

— MR OLAWALE QUADRI 🇳🇬 (@QualityQuadry) November 8, 2026