New Zealand soars to World Cup finals

During the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final match between Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, and Japan, First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu was seen cheering for the team. In a video that circulated on social media, she was watching the game from her residence while showing her support for the players by applauding their performance and chanting "Nigeria! Nigeria!" as the Flamingos fought against Japan for the championship.

The Flamingos emerged victorious, defeating Japan 2-1 to claim their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title. This win made Nigeria the first African nation to lift the prestigious trophy. Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute secured the win for Nigeria at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. Despite Japan scoring through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, the Flamingos managed to keep their composure and hold on to win the historic match.

This remarkable triumph also marked a first for Nigeria in the competition – the first African country to win both the men’s and women’s FIFA U-17 World Cup. Additionally, the Flamingos achieved the unique feat of losing their opening match to Poland in the group stage but still managed to triumph by overcoming the deficit. Journalist Samuel Omotere reported this exciting development, highlighting the Flamingos' journey to becoming the first team in the competition’s history to defy the odds and claim the ultimate prize.