By Teddy Nwanunobi
Following Flamingos’ 2-1 win over the Little Nadeshiko of Japan in the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final on Saturday night in Morocco, Nigeria has written another remarkable chapter in football history to become the first African nation to win both male and female world cups.
The historic achievement, which places Nigeria in a unique position, brought back memories of the Golden Eaglets’ remarkable success in the men’s competition, where Nigeria established itself as a global force in youth football.
The Golden Eaglets won their first FIFA U-17 World Cup title in 1985 before securing subsequent championships in 1993, 2007, 2013, and 2015.
Interestingly, the 1993 final also ended in a 2-1 victory for Nigeria, although their opponents were Ghana, but the trophy was won in Japan.
More than three decades after that second triumph, the Flamingos delivered another historic milestone, defeating Japan to secure Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
The achievement underscores Nigeria’s remarkable record in youth football, and represents a significant breakthrough for African women’s football.
With the Golden Eaglets’ five men’s titles and the Flamingos’ maiden women’s crown, Nigeria has further strengthened its reputation as one of the leading nations in global youth football.