Nigeria U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have defeated Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to reach their first-ever final on Wednesday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Three second-half goals at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat secured the Flamingos’ historic place in the final, making Nigeria the first African nation to reach the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
Head coach Akeem Busari made one change to the starting XI that defeated Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter-finals, with Awawu Bashiru replacing Tosin Rafiu.
Nigeria dominated the first half and created several opportunities but were unable to find the breakthrough, while Brazil struggled to test the Flamingos’ defence as both sides went into the break goalless.
The Flamingos continued their attacking pressure after the restart and broke the deadlock in the 56th minute. Oluwakemi Adegbuyi drove into the penalty area and saw her effort blocked, but the ball fell kindly for Queen Joseph, who slid it past Brazil goalkeeper Nathy to give Nigeria the lead.
Nigeria doubled their advantage in the 71st minute after moving the ball around following a set-piece, with Awawu Bashiru finishing brilliantly by lifting the ball over Brazil goalkeeper Nathy from a tight angle.
Bashiru completed her brace in the 80th minute after a well-worked team move involving Oluebube Umejiaku to extend Nigeria’s lead to 3-0.
Brazil pulled one back in the 89th minute through Greise Kelly, but Nigeria held on during the closing stages to secure a 3-1 victory.
The Flamingos will face Japan in the final after they defeated DPR Korea 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Nigeria will now aim to become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Image: FIFA
