President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, on their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, describing their championship run as well deserved.
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Nigeria defeated Japan 2–1 in the final played on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.
The victory made the Flamingos the first African side to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the first African nation to claim a FIFA women’s world title at any age level.
Speaking after the trophy presentation, Infantino applauded the Nigerian squad for their breakthrough performance on the global stage.
“Congratulations to Nigeria, world champions of the Under-17 Women’s World Cup here in Rabat. First African team ever to win a Women’s Under-17 World Cup. So many congratulations to Nigeria, well deserved in the final,” Infantino said.
The FIFA president also commended runners-up Japan for their silver-medal finish and praised DPR Korea for securing the bronze medal.
The decisive match marked the first time an African nation faced an Asian opponent in the final of a FIFA tournament, underscoring the rapid growth and competitiveness of women’s football across both continents.
The 2026 tournament was the second edition to feature an expanded 24-team format, hosted by Morocco under FIFA’s new framework to stage the competition annually through 2029.
Infantino also commended the North African nation for its organization and sporting infrastructure, describing Morocco as a “wonderful host” for the global youth showpiece.
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