Nigeria’s U-17 Girls, the Flamingos, delivered a historic 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.
Head coach Akeem Busari’s side displayed clinical finishing throughout the second half to dismantle the South Americans and secure Nigeria’s first-ever appearance in a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
The match remained evenly contested during a tactical first half, with both defenses holding firm. Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 56th minute when Oluwakemi Adegbuyi setup Queen Joseph, who finished calmly past Brazil goalkeeper Nathy.
The Flamingos seized complete control of the momentum through Awawu Bashiru, who was brought into the starting lineup for this semi-final fixture. In the 71st minute, Queen Joseph turned provider, setting up Bashiru to double Nigeria’s lead. Nine minutes later, Bashiru completed her brace after connecting with an assist from Oluebube Umejiaku in the 80th minute to make it 3-0. Greise Kelly pulled one back for Brazil in the 89th minute, but Nigeria comfortably managed the remaining minutes to close out the landmark victory.
Nigeria starting XI: Jane Ijirigho, Azeezat Oduntan (C), Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf, Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Awawu Bashiru, Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku.
Brazil starting XI: Nathy, Isa Rech, Yasmin Queiroz, Andreyna (C), Sarah Coelho, Marcela Bontorim, Carol Melo, Helena, Pepe, Sofia Gamonal, Greise Kelly.
Nigeria will meet Japan in the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 7:30 PM WAT.
