Nigeria’s Flamingos Face Japan in Historic U-17 Women’s World Cup Final Tonight

Nigeria’s Flamingos Face Japan in Historic U-17 Women’s World Cup Final Tonight

Nigeria’s Flamingos have retained their winning starting XI for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final against Japan at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday, November 7. Head coach Akeem Busari has kept faith with the team that defeated Brazil 3-1 in the semi-final, with captain Azeezat Oduntan leading the defence and Awawu Bashiru retaining her midfield position after scoring twice against Brazil. Goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho also starts as Nigeria chase their first-ever title.

Japan have made four changes to their starting line-up, bringing in Wara Shimizu, Sayana Oshita, Rara Higuchi and Yuka Kishida. Captain Honoka Yotsumoto remains in the team as Japan pursue a second world title after winning the competition in 2014. Both nations have recorded five victories in normal time from six matches, with Japan scoring 14 goals and conceding two, while Nigeria have scored 12 and conceded five. The Flamingos are aiming to become the first African nation to win the tournament.

The final is scheduled for 7:30 pm Nigerian time, with coverage expected on FIFA+, DAZN in selected regions, and Nigerian broadcasters including NTA, AfroSport and M4STV. The midfield battle could prove decisive, as Nigeria seek to disrupt Japan’s passing combinations while using their attacking strength to create scoring opportunities. A victory would mark a historic breakthrough for Nigerian women’s youth football.