Well Deserved – Infantino Hails Flamingos For Making African Football History

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Nigerian team defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, becoming the first African country to win the competition since its introduction in 2008.

Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku gave the Flamingos a two-goal advantage before Japan’s Fuki Ito reduced the deficit. However, the Nigerian girls maintained their lead until the final whistle to secure the historic championship.

Reacting to the achievement, Infantino praised the team for their impressive performances throughout the tournament, describing their victory as well deserved.

The FIFA president expressed excitement over Nigeria’s accomplishment, particularly its significance for African women’s football, as the Flamingos became the first team from the continent to lift the U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.

He also extended his congratulations to Japan for finishing as runners-up, while acknowledging the efforts of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea), which secured third place.

Infantino described the competition as a successful tournament and commended all three countries for their performances.

The victory represents a major milestone for Nigerian football and African women’s football, bringing an end to the continent’s wait for a title in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which was first organised in 2008.