The 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Final in Morocco saw Nigeria secure the title for the first time.
Awawu Bashiru gave Nigeria the lead over Japan close to half-time, and Oluebube Umejiaku doubled it just two minutes after the interval.
Fuki Ito replied with ten minutes remaining, but it would be the first time an African side had won the title.
Reigning champions North Korea won the Bronze final by thrashing Brazil 6-0, with four of the goals coming in the last half-hour.
Japan had earlier defeated North Korea 4-1 on penalties in the semi-finals after a dramatic stoppage-time own goal denied the Koreans victory. Nigeria previously beat Brazil 3-1 in the other last-four tie.
The Golden Ball award was won by Nigeria’s Oluebube Umejiaku, with North Korea’s Yu Jong-hyang receiving the Silver Ball and Japan’s Fuki Ito taking the Bronze Ball.
The Golden Boot was clearly claimed by Maddie DiMaria (USA) with twelve goals, while the Silver and Bronze Boots went to North Korea’s Yu Jong-hyang and Ri Ui-gyong, respectively, both four goals behind the winner.
North Korean goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong won the Golden Glove, and the FIFA Fair Play Award was presented to Japan.
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