Tinubu congratulates Flamingos on historic qualification for U-17 Women’s World Cup final
Abdullateef Fowewe
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, on their impressive 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
In a State House press release issued on Thursday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, the President described the team’s qualification for the final as “a remarkable achievement that has brought immense pride and joy to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad.”
The Flamingos secured their place in the final with a dominant second-half performance on Wednesday night at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat.
Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute, before Awawu Bashiru netted a brace in the 71st and 80th minutes.
Brazil managed a late consolation through Greise Kelly in the 89th minute.
This marks the first time Nigeria has reached the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the first time any African nation has advanced to the title decider.
The team’s previous best finish was a bronze medal at the 2022 edition in India.
President Tinubu also applauded the coaching crew, led by Akeem Busari, and all those whose hard work contributed to the successful campaign.
Looking ahead to the final against Japan on Saturday, November 7, he urged the players to stay focused.
“I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title,” the President said.
He called on Nigerians to rally behind the team, “I call on all Nigerians to rally behind the young ambassadors of the nation, whose achievements continue to showcase Nigeria’s sporting excellence and inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams uninhibited.
“Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!”
The Flamingos recovered from an opening-group-stage setback earlier in the tournament and advanced through the knockout stages with determination. Japan reached the final by defeating defending champions North Korea on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
The final offers Nigeria the chance to become the first African side to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
