Umejiaku Celebrated with Golden Ball as FIFA Launches U-17 Women’s Tournament

Nigeria’s Oluebube Umejiaku Clinches adidas Golden Ball at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

Oluebube Umejiaku, the star forward from Nigeria, has been honored with the prestigious adidas Golden Ball, awarded to the best player of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco.

This accolade comes on the heels of an exceptional tournament performance, which culminated in the Flamingos achieving their first-ever world title with a thrilling 2–1 victory over Japan in the final held in Rabat on Saturday.

Outstanding Tournament Performance

Umejiaku scored Nigeria’s critical second goal during the final match, elevating her total to four goals throughout the tournament. Alongside her victory, DPR Korea’s Yu Jong-hyang was honored with the Silver Ball award while Japan’s Fuki Ito received the Bronze Ball.

Goalscoring Honors

In the individual scoring categories, Maddie DiMaria from the United States emerged as the winner of the adidas Golden Boot, leading the goal charts with an impressive total of 12 goals. Yu Jong-hyang also secured the Silver Boot, while her DPR Korea teammate Ri Ui-gyong earned the Bronze Boot.

Acknowledgments and Recognition

Korean goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong took home the Golden Glove, recognizing her as the best goalkeeper of the tournament. Additionally, Japan, despite finishing as runners-up, received the FIFA Fair Play Trophy for their exemplary conduct throughout the event.

Complete List of Award Winners

adidas Golden Ball (Best Player): Oluebube Umejiaku (Nigeria)

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

adidas Bronze Ball: Fuki Ito (Japan)

adidas Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Maddie DiMaria (USA — 12 goals)

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

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

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

FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Japan