Samuel Ahmadu LIVE in Morocco

Nigeria’s Flamingos will face Japan in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat on Saturday, November 7, with both teams chasing a historic finish to their campaigns.

FIFA’s statistical breakdown ahead of the encounter highlights Japan’s attacking pedigree and tournament experience, while Nigeria’s impressive shot count and growing confidence underline the challenge awaiting the Asian champions.

MATCH FACTS

150 – Japan’s all-time goals

Japan’s last-gasp equaliser against DPR Korea in the semi-final was the nation’s 150th goal in the history of the competition, making them the tournament’s all-time leading scorers.

113 – Nigeria’s attempts at goal

The Flamingos have registered 113 attempts at goal in Morocco, the second-highest tally in the competition behind DPR Korea’s 186. Nigeria recorded 35 attempts in their 3–1 semi-final victory over Brazil.

73 – Bashiru’s minutes before her breakthrough

Before the Brazil semi-final, Awawu Bashiru had played just 73 minutes in the tournament, all as a substitute. She announced herself with a brace in her first start and was named Player of the Match.

50 – Japan’s tournament appearances

Saturday’s final will be Japan’s 50th match in the history of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Only DPR Korea, who will play Brazil in the third-place match, have featured in more games.

16 – Shirai’s record appearance

The final will be Japan coach Sadayoshi Shirai’s 16th match at the tournament, making him the competition’s record appearance-maker among coaches. He has now guided Japan through three editions.

10 – Japan’s participation in every edition

Japan and New Zealand are the only two nations to have participated in all ten editions of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

8 – Nigeria’s different goalscorers

Nigeria have shared their goals across eight players at Morocco 2026. Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Awawu Bashiru, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyinsola Yusuf have scored twice each, while Mary Dunstan, Queen Joseph, Azeezat Oduntan and Precious Oscar have one goal apiece.

5 – Both teams’ winning streak

Nigeria and Japan have each won their last five matches at the tournament, matching the fourth-longest winning streak in the competition’s history.

4 – Japan’s fourth final

Japan will contest their fourth U-17 Women’s World Cup final, having previously reached the decider in 2010, 2014 and 2016. Their only title came in 2014, when they defeated Spain 2–0.

2 – Japan’s goals conceded

Japan have conceded only twice on their way to the final, against Kenya and DPR Korea. Their defensive record will provide a major test for Nigeria’s attack.

1 – Nigeria’s historic achievement

Nigeria became the first African nation to reach the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The Flamingos also defeated defending champions DPR Korea in the group stage, becoming the first team to beat the reigning champions in regulation time at an U-17 finals.

1 – A chance to rewrite history

Nigeria are bidding to become the first team to lose their opening match at the tournament and go on to win the title. After their 2–1 defeat to Poland, the Flamingos have responded with five consecutive victories to reach Saturday’s final.