Chuks Akuneto, a Nigerian-born football coach based in England, has praised the Nigeria U-17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, following their historic 2-1 victory over Japan in Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final in Morocco, Completesports.com reports.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for the impressive Flamingos in the first half, before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage after the break.
Japan’s Fuki Ito subsequently reduced the deficit, but Nigeria held on to secure a historic victory, claiming their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
The triumph also marked the first time an African nation had won a FIFA Women’s World Cup title.
Akuneto Hails Flamingos’ World Cup Success
Speaking to Completesports.com from his base in the United Kingdom shortly after the final whistle, Akuneto, a former Oldham Athletic U-19 coach and UEFA A-licensed coach, described the Flamingos’ achievement as a testament to the wealth of footballing talent in Nigeria.
“The girls have done really well indeed, and I must commend their tenacity, focus and determination,” Akuneto said.
“This victory highlights the tremendous depth of talent available in Nigerian women’s football and the enormous potential that comes with it.
Read Also:2026 U-17 WWC: Flamingos Bag $50,000 for Historic Title Win
“Professionally, I am confident that European clubs will be lining up to sign some of these talented players.”
Reward For World Champions
Asked what he considered an appropriate reward for the young players in recognition of the honour they had brought to the country, particularly at a time of growing political and economic challenges in Nigeria, Akuneto said the decision rested with the country’s leadership.
“In terms of financial rewards, I will leave that to the powers that be, as it is usually a political decision,” he added.
Need For Support And Investment
However, he stressed that beyond financial rewards, the players deserved sustained support and investment to help them build on their success.
“The team should be supported and further developed to prepare them for future challenges as they progress through the various age-grade levels of the women’s national teams,” he stated.
Bright Future Ahead For Flamingos
Akuneto expressed confidence in the players’ prospects, insisting that their achievement was only the beginning of what promises to be a bright future.
“The future is, no doubt, bright for these players,” he concluded.
By Sab Osuji
