FIFA president Gianni Infantino has joined the celebrations following Nigeria’s historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup triumph, recognising the Flamingos’ achievement as a landmark moment for African women’s football.
The Nigerian youngsters defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco, to become the first African nation to win the competition.
The victory has attracted recognition from across the football world, with Infantino praising the Flamingos for their performance and describing their championship success as well deserved.
Nigeria established control of the final through goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, taking a two-goal advantage before Fuki Ito pulled one back for Japan.
Reacting after the encounter, Infantino congratulated Nigeria on becoming the first African country to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, highlighting the significance of the achievement for the continent.
“Congratulations to Nigeria, world champion U-17 Women’s World Cup of FIFA here in Rabat. First African team to ever win a (FIFA) Women’s U-17 World Cup — so many congratulations to Nigeria. Well deserved in the final,” Infantino stated.
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The FIFA chief also acknowledged the efforts of Japan, who finished the tournament with the silver medal after their defeat in the championship match.
He extended his congratulations to DPR Korea, who secured third place to claim the bronze medal.
“Congratulations to Japan as well, great tournament, silver medal. And DPR Korea, bronze medalists at this beautiful (FIFA) U-17 Women’s World Cup,” he added.
Infantino’s reaction adds to the growing recognition of the Flamingos following a campaign that has delivered Nigeria’s first title at the tournament and ended Africa’s long wait for a champion in the competition.
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The achievement is huge for Nigerian women’s football, providing another landmark moment for the country’s youth development programme and a source of inspiration for the next generation of female footballers.
After overcoming an opening defeat to Poland and progressing through a challenging knockout campaign, the Flamingos ultimately delivered their most important performance against Japan to secure a place in history.
