Nigeria’s Flamingos delivered an outstanding performance to defeat defending champions North Korea 3–1 in their final Group B fixture at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Friday, October 23.
The victory was a major statement from the Nigerian side, who bounced back from their opening defeat to Poland and followed up their win over Puerto Rico with an impressive performance against one of the tournament favourites.
Goals from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyinsola Yusuf secured the victory for Nigeria, while North Korea managed a late consolation goal through Yu Jong-hyang from the penalty spot.
Adegbuyi Gives Nigeria the Lead
Nigeria started confidently and took the lead in the 15th minute through striker Oluwakemi Adegbuyi.
The goal gave the Flamingos an early advantage and boosted their confidence against a North Korean side that had scored 12 goals in its opening two matches.
Nigeria continued to press and created further opportunities, putting the defending champions under pressure.
Umejiaku Doubles Nigeria’s Advantage
The Flamingos extended their lead in the 38th minute when Oluebube Umejiaku found the back of the net to make it 2–0.
Nigeria’s second goal provided a significant boost before half-time, leaving North Korea with a difficult task in the second half.
The Nigerian players maintained their discipline and worked collectively to limit the defending champions’ attacking threat.
Yusuf Seals a Memorable Victory
Nigeria strengthened their advantage in the 56th minute when Kanyinsola Yusuf scored the team’s third goal, putting the Flamingos firmly in control at 3–0.
North Korea continued to search for a response and eventually reduced the deficit in the 82nd minute when Yu Jong-hyang converted a penalty.
However, Nigeria held on to secure a memorable 3–1 victory over the reigning champions.
Nigeria Make a Statement in Morocco
The victory represents an important achievement for Nigeria, demonstrating the Flamingos’ ability to compete with the strongest teams in women’s youth football.
After losing 2–1 to Poland in their opening match, Nigeria responded with consecutive victories over Puerto Rico and North Korea to finish their group-stage campaign with six points.
The result also underlines the importance of the team’s resilience and determination as they pursue another strong finish at the tournament.
For North Korea, the defeat ends their group campaign on a disappointing note after two commanding victories to begin the competition.
Full-time result: Nigeria U-17 3–1 North Korea U-17
Competition: FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026
Group: B
Nigeria’s goal scorers:
- Oluwakemi Adegbuyi (15′)
- Oluebube Umejiaku (38′)
- Kanyinsola Yusuf (56′)
North Korea’s goal scorer:
- Yu Jong-hyang (82′, penalty)
Source: FIFA.
