Nigeria’s Flamingos have reached the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a historic 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil in Rabat.
The result makes Nigeria the first African nation to reach the final of the competition, while also completing an impressive recovery from defeat in their opening match.
Akeem Busari’s side lost 2-1 to Poland at the start of the tournament but responded strongly, becoming only the second team since 2014 to reach the final after losing their first game.
The semi-final was played at Mohammed VI Football Complex Pitch 3 on Wednesday night, with the Flamingos producing a disciplined and determined display to overcome a technically gifted Brazil team.
Busari said the achievement was significant for both Nigeria and the wider development of football in the country.
“It’s an awesome thing, it’s a great achievement. Reaching the final is a plus for our country, it’s a plus for our football. We are happy, the girls are happy,” he told FIFA.
Busari praises players’ courage
The Nigeria coach acknowledged the quality of Brazil’s performance but said his players had followed their tactical instructions and shown the bravery needed to reach the final.
“It was a key contest and it wasn’t an easy one. Brazil really showed the stuff they have technically, but we tried to really block the view of their passing line, so we had to show character,” Busari said.
He also praised the players for responding to the demands of the match, while noting their age and the support they had received from the coaching staff.
“[We played] really, really bravely. We appreciate the girls because they are young. We could only encourage them and tell them what they needed to do to make the final,” he added.
The victory marks a major milestone for the Flamingos, who will now compete for the world title after overturning the disappointment of their opening defeat to Poland.
Busari previously cautioned his players against complacency ahead of their clash with Venezuela, but the team’s success against Brazil has secured Nigeria a place in the decisive match of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.