The encounter presents Nigeria with an opportunity to become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, while Japan will be seeking their second title after previously lifting the trophy in 2014.
Kick-off is scheduled for 6:30pm GMT (7:30pm Nigerian time).
Nigeria target historic triumph
Nigeria have produced an impressive recovery after beginning their campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Poland in the group stage.
The Flamingos responded with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions DPR Korea before continuing their progress through the knockout rounds.
They defeated Mexico in the round of 16 and Venezuela in the quarter-finals before producing one of their best performances of the tournament to beat Brazil 3-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final.
Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute before substitute Awawu Bashiru took centre stage, scoring twice in the 71st and 80th minutes. Brazil's Greise Kelly scored a late consolation in the 89th minute.
Nigeria’s victory secured their first-ever appearance in the final and made them the first African country to reach the competition’s showpiece.
Head coach Akeem Busari will now hope his players can reproduce that attacking intensity against a technically gifted Japanese side.
Japan seek second world title
Japan have also enjoyed an impressive campaign, reaching their fourth final in the competition's history.
The Asian side previously appeared in the finals of 2010, 2014 and 2016, winning their only title in 2014 with a 2-0 victory over Spain.
Their route to Saturday’s final has included victories over Kenya in the round of 16 and Ghana in the quarter-finals.
Japan produced one of the tournament's most dramatic moments in the semi-finals, coming from behind to draw 1-1 with two-time defending champions DPR Korea before winning the penalty shootout.
DPR Korea had taken the lead through Ri Ui-gyong in the 52nd minute, but Japan secured a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time through a Won Sol-gyong own goal.
Japan subsequently held their nerve from the penalty spot to book their place in the final.
Head coach Sadayoshi Shirai has urged his players to remain focused as they prepare for the challenge posed by Nigeria.
Players to watch
Queen Joseph (Nigeria): The Nigerian forward has been an important attacking presence for the Flamingos. Her goal against Brazil demonstrated her ability to make decisive contributions in important matches.
Awawu Bashiru (Nigeria): Bashiru delivered a remarkable semi-final performance against Brazil, scoring twice after previously making limited appearances from the bench. Her pace and attacking instincts could prove important in the final.
Mei Hanashiro (Japan): Hanashiro has been one of Japan’s standout attacking players, recording four goals and one assist during the tournament. Nigeria will need to pay close attention to her movement and finishing.
Key statistics ahead of the final
• Nigeria: First African nation to reach the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
• Japan: Making their fourth appearance in the final, having won the 2014 edition.
• Nigeria's attack: The Flamingos have registered 113 attempts on goal, the second-highest total in the tournament.
• Japan's defence: The Japanese have conceded only twice on their journey to the final.
• Winning momentum: Both countries have won their last five matches at Morocco 2026.
• Nigeria's history: The Flamingos are seeking to become the first team to win the tournament after losing their opening match.
What is at stake?
For Nigeria, Saturday's final represents an opportunity to achieve something no African country has accomplished at this level of women's football.
The Flamingos have already made history by reaching the final, but lifting the trophy would take their achievement to another level and provide a major milestone for Nigerian women's football.
Japan, however, have the experience of previous finals and will be determined to add a second world title to their record.
With Nigeria's attacking strength meeting Japan's defensive organisation and technical quality, an exciting contest awaits in Rabat.
Fixture: Nigeria vs Japan
Competition: FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 – Final
Date: Saturday, 7 November 2026
Venue: Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, Rabat, Morocco
Kick-off: 6:30pm GMT (7:30pm Nigerian time)
Where to watch: FIFA+ and DAZN, subject to regional availability.