Flamingos Stun Brazil 3-1: Nigeria Reach Historic First U17 Women’s World Cup Final

Nigeria’s Flamingos produced a dominant second-half display to defeat Brazil 3-1 in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, booking their first-ever appearance in the tournament final.

All four goals arrived after the break at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat.

Queen Joseph broke the deadlock in the 56th minute before Awawu Bashiru struck twice (71st and 80th minutes) to put the result beyond doubt. Brazil’s Greise Kelly scored a late consolation in the 89th minute.

The goalless first half was tight and physical, with both sides creating limited clear chances. Nigeria grew into the contest after the restart. Joseph’s opener sparked a clinical surge, and Bashiru’s brace— including a sharp finish from a tight angle—showcased the Flamingos’ pace, directness and finishing quality. The Nigerian midfield and attack repeatedly stretched Brazil’s defence, converting pressure into goals with ruthless efficiency.

This victory marks a landmark moment for Nigerian women’s youth football. The Flamingos had previously reached the semi-finals (finishing third in 2022) but never the final. Coach Akeem Busari’s side now stands one match from becoming the first Nigerian team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

Nigeria’s performance highlighted collective strength and individual brilliance. Bashiru’s double made her the standout performer on the night, while Joseph’s early second-half goal set the platform.

The defence held firm for long periods against a talented Brazilian attack that had impressed earlier in the tournament. The late Brazilian goal did little to dampen the celebrations as the final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s historic progression.

The Flamingos will face the winner of the other semi-final, Japan, in the final on Saturday, 7 November 2026.

Nigeria’s path to the final included hard-fought knockout wins, underlining their resilience and growing stature on the global stage.

Fans across Nigeria and the diaspora celebrated a breakthrough that elevates the profile of the Flamingos and Nigerian women’s football as a whole. The final now offers the chance to complete a fairytale run and claim the ultimate prize.