Flamingos Fly To The Top Of The World, Enabulele Hails Nigeria’s Golden Generation
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos on their historic victory over Japan to emerge champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria 2-1 Japan In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described the triumph as a remarkable demonstration of courage, resilience and the Nigerian fighting spirit, noting that the young footballers had etched their names in history as the first Nigerian team to win a FIFA women’s world title and the first African team to win the tournament. He singled out Awawu Bashiru, who opened the scoring in the 39th minute, and Edo Queens striker Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goal two minutes after the restart doubled Nigeria’s advantage and provided the platform for victory. Japan pulled one back through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held firm to the final whistle. Enabulele applauded the entire squad for their tactical discipline, teamwork and commitment throughout the competition, calling the achievement a defining moment for Nigerian and African women’s football. He highlighted the team’s journey to the title, including a 3-1 group stage win over defending champions North Korea, a 2-1 victory over Mexico in the Round of 16, and a hard fought 1-0 quarter final win against Venezuela, courtesy of a late penalty from captain Azeezat Oduntan. The Flamingos then sealed their place in the final with an emphatic 3-1 semi final win over Brazil, making them the first African team to reach the tournament’s title match. The Sports Commission boss also praised the technical crew, led by Coach Hakeem Busari, for their dedication and tactical input, stressing that the victory reinforces the case for sustained investment in grassroots sports and women’s football. He said the triumph would inspire a new generation of female footballers across Nigeria, particularly aspiring players in Edo State, urging them to believe in their abilities, pursue excellence and aim for international recognition. By Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed
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