Oluebube Umejiaku Wins Golden Ball as Flamingos Make History at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

Nigeria’s teenage sensation, Oluebube Umejiaku, has been crowned the best player at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after playing a decisive role in the Flamingos’ historic triumph in Morocco.

According to a report by the BBC, the Nigerian forward received the prestigious adidas Golden Ball award following an outstanding tournament in which she helped the national team secure their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

The Flamingos made history on Saturday, November 7, after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat. The victory made Nigeria the first African nation to win the competition since its introduction in 2008.

Umejiaku played a crucial role in the final, scoring Nigeria’s second goal just two minutes into the second half to give her country a two-goal advantage.

After Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute, Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 47th minute with an excellent finish. She controlled a long pass from Esther Stephen before calmly lifting the ball over Japan goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki and into the net.

Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos remained defensively solid in the closing stages to protect their lead and secure the historic victory.

Umejiaku finished the tournament with four goals and two assists, recording a goal contribution in each of Nigeria’s seven matches. Her impressive performances included crucial contributions against Poland, DPR Korea, Mexico and Japan.

Meanwhile, DPR Korea’s Yu Jong-hyang received the Silver Ball award, while Japan’s Fuki Ito claimed the Bronze Ball following her impressive displays throughout the competition.

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