Umejiaku Makes History! Nigeria's Flamingos Star Wins U-17 World Cup Golden Ball

Nigeria's Oluebube Umejiaku has been named the best player at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 after helping the Flamingos secure their first-ever title.

Nigeria forward Oluebube Umejiaku has won the adidas Golden Ball at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026, capping an outstanding tournament with individual recognition after the Flamingos' historic triumph.

Umejiaku scored Nigeria's second goal in their 2-1 victory over Japan in Saturday's final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat. Her 47th-minute strike, assisted by Esther Stephen, proved decisive as Nigeria became the first African nation to win the competition.

The forward finished the tournament with four goals and was one of the key figures in Nigeria's title-winning campaign.

DPR Korea's Yu Jong-hyang received the Silver Ball, while Japan's Fuki Ito was named winner of the Bronze Ball.

The Golden Boot went to USA forward Maddie DiMaria, who finished with 12 goals despite her country's quarter-final exit. Her tally included six goals against Samoa and four against Kenya.

DPR Korea goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong claimed the adidas Golden Glove after helping her team secure third place, while Japan received the FIFA Fair Play Trophy.

FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 Award Winners

adidas Golden Ball: Oluebube Umejiaku (Nigeria)

adidas Silver Ball: Yu Jong-hyang (DPR Korea)

adidas Bronze Ball: Fuki Ito (Japan)

adidas Golden Boot: Maddie DiMaria (USA)

adidas Silver Boot: Yu Jong-hyang (DPR Korea)

adidas Bronze Boot: Ri Ui-gyong (DPR Korea)

adidas Golden Glove: Kim Son-gyong (DPR Korea)

FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Japan

Umejiaku's Golden Ball adds another milestone to Nigeria's historic campaign, as the Flamingos return home as world champions and with one of the tournament's most prestigious individual awards.

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