Flamingos star Umejiaku wins Golden Ball as Nigeria claims historic U-17 World Cup title
Nigeria's Flamingos made history in Rabat, Morocco, beating Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup — the country's first title at this level. Forward Oluebube Umejiaku scored Nigeria's second goal, finished with four tournament goals, and claimed the adidas Golden Ball as best player. It was her first career award. "I give God all the glory because every day, I pray for it," she told Channels Television's The Morning Brief earlier today.
The squad met President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, represented by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The presidency announced a ₦100 million bond for the team, and the Senate also hosted the champions. Umejiaku, who said she doesn't have direct access to the money, plans to invest in her future: "By the special grace of God, I will like to see myself play for the Super Falcons and play for international clubs."
Other tournament honors: DPR Korea's Yu Jong-hyang (Silver Ball), Japan's Fuki Ito (Bronze Ball), USA's Maddie DiMaria (Golden Boot, 12 goals), DPR Korea's Kim Son-gyong (Golden Glove), and Japan (FIFA Fair Play Trophy).
This victory signals a breakthrough for Nigerian women's youth football after years of near-misses. The presidential reward and Senate recognition reflect rare political alignment behind women's sport.
With Umejiaku and her teammates now targeting Super Falcons call-ups and professional contracts abroad, will this U-17 triumph finally translate into sustained investment in the women's game pipeline — or fade like previous junior successes?