The victory on 7 November 2026 secured Nigeria's first-ever title in the competition and made the country the first African nation to lift the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup trophy.
It was also the first FIFA women's world title won by an African national team at any level.
Bashiru and Umejiaku fire Nigeria to victory
Nigeria started the final confidently, putting Japan under pressure and creating several opportunities before eventually breaking the deadlock in the 39th minute.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring with a long-range effort that slipped through the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki to give the Flamingos a 1-0 lead.
The Nigerian side wasted little time after the restart, doubling their advantage in the 47th minute.
Oluebube Umejiaku raced on to Esther Stephen's excellent forward pass before producing a composed finish over the advancing goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Japan attempted to respond and gradually increased the pressure as the contest progressed.
Their efforts paid off in the 80th minute when Fuki Ito volleyed home after Anri Ito headed a corner back across goal.
The Japanese side pushed desperately for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Nigeria's defence remained organised to protect their advantage and secure a historic victory.
Umejiaku wins Golden Ball
Umejiaku was named Player of the Match after her outstanding performance in the final.
Her winning goal was her fourth of the tournament and helped secure the Golden Ball award as the competition's best player.
The forward played a crucial role in Nigeria's remarkable journey, which included six consecutive victories after their opening-match defeat to Poland.
Nigeria make African football history
Nigeria became the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, adding the women's title to the five U-17 men's World Cup crowns previously won by the country.
The achievement also attracted congratulations from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who described Nigeria's victory as well deserved.
Japan finished as runners-up, while DPR Korea claimed the bronze medal after defeating Brazil 6-0 in the third-place match.
Nigeria's historic triumph will be remembered as a landmark moment for the country's women's football and the African game.
Final result
• Nigeria: 2-1 Japan
• Nigeria scorers: Awawu Bashiru 39', Oluebube Umejiaku 47'
• Japan scorer: Fuki Ito 80'
• Player of the Match: Oluebube Umejiaku (Nigeria)
• Golden Ball: Oluebube Umejiaku (Nigeria)
• Champions: Nigeria
• Runners-up: Japan
• Third place: DPR Korea