2026 U-17 WWC: Flamingos’ Umejiaku wins Golden Ball award

Nigeria’s Flamingos forward Oluebube Umejiaku has won the Golden Ball award as the Most Valuable Player of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The 16-year-old striker played a key role in Nigeria’s historic campaign, helping the team secure their first-ever title in the competition.

Umejiaku was among the goalscorers in the Flamingos’ 2-1 victory over Japan in Saturday’s final, finding the net two minutes into the second half to extend Nigeria’s lead.

Her impressive display also earned her the Player of the Match award, making her the fifth Flamingos player to receive the honour during the tournament.

The young forward delivered consistent performances throughout the competition, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s attacking play.

She finished the tournament with four goals and two assists, an impressive return that highlighted her influence on the team’s successful campaign.

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Umejiaku’s Golden Ball award capped a memorable tournament for the teenager, who played an important part in helping Nigeria make history as champions of the U-17 Women’s World Cup.