U-17 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria topples the invincible North Korea in a major statement

Nigeria pulled off a stunning feat in Rabat on Friday. By defeating the DPR Korea—the reigning world champions—3–1, they brought an end to a nearly eight-year unbeaten run for the North Koreans in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup (excluding penalty shootouts).

Nigeria made a powerful statement. At the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Akeem Busari’s side delivered a top-tier performance to take down a North Korean team that had gone 2,900 days without a defeat in the competition. This prestigious victory underscores the ambitions of the African side in the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Nigerians made their intentions clear early on. In the 15th minute, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi broke into space, held off her marker, cut toward the center, and beat the North Korean goalkeeper, landing an initial blow against a side renowned for its defensive solidity.

Unsettled, the Asian side began to make a series of errors, particularly in their passing. Nigeria capitalized, doubling their lead in the 38th minute. Following a rapid transition, Oluebube Umejiaku converted to extend her team’s dominance, ensuring they headed into the break with a two-goal cushion.

Nigeria secures points

After the interval, the "Flamingos" did not take their foot off the gas. Determined to make this match a defining moment in their tournament, they continued to keep the North Korean defense under pressure. In the 56th minute, Kanyinsola Yusuf delivered the final blow with a magnificent direct free kick, curling the ball into the top corner. The goal was a fitting reward for a polished performance from the midfielder, who was named player of the match.

DPR Korea managed a consolation goal in the 82nd minute, when Yu Jong-hyang converted a penalty. While this added to the North Korean player’s impressive tally for the tournament, it could not prevent her side from falling to defeat.

Despite this setback, DPR Korea remains at the top of Group B. As for Nigeria, they have secured much more than just three points: by taking down one of the world’s top teams in this age category, the West Africans have sent a powerful message to their rivals.