Nigeria’s triumphant Flamingos have returned to the country following their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The team arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, early on Monday morning, where they were welcomed by officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), supporters and well-wishers.

Their homecoming followed a memorable campaign in which they defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat to claim Nigeria’s first-ever title in the competition.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the advantage shortly after the restart.

Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Nigerian youngsters held on to secure the historic victory.

The triumph also made Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, ending the continent’s long wait for the title.

Before their return, the players and officials received a special reception in Morocco hosted by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and its Director-General, Bukola Olopade.

The Flamingos had earlier demonstrated their potential by winning the 2026 WAFU-B U-17 Girls Cup in Côte d’Ivoire, recording five victories from five matches, scoring 17 goals and conceding just once.

Their World Cup journey included victories over Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil in the knockout stages, following a challenging group campaign that began with a defeat to Poland.

The achievement has attracted congratulatory messages from President Bola Tinubu and other Nigerians, with the President describing the victory as a landmark moment for the country and African women's football.

The team's return marks the beginning of celebrations at home after a campaign that has placed Nigeria at the top of the global youth women's game.