2026 U-17 WWC: Shirai Praises Japan’s Fighting Spirit Despite Defeat To Flamingos

Japan U-17 women’s national team head coach Sadayoshi Shirai has expressed pride in his players’ resilience and commitment following their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Little Nadeshiko came up short against the Flamingos at the Mohammed VI Football Complex Pitch 3 in Rabat on Saturday night, with Nigeria making history by winning their first-ever U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

Japan began the final on the front foot but found it difficult to match Nigeria’s physicality, pace and attacking intensity as the Flamingos gradually established control of the game.

Nigeria took advantage of their dominance through goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, putting them firmly in control of the contest.

Japan, however, refused to give up and reignited hopes of a comeback when Fuki Ito found the net with 10 minutes left to play.

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Despite their late resurgence, the Japanese side could not find an equaliser as Nigeria held on to secure a historic victory.

Shirai Reacts To Japan Defeat Against Flamingos

Shirai acknowledged the quality of the Nigerian team but praised his players for their determination to compete until the final whistle.

“First of all, I have to say that Nigeria were a very strong team. We understood their strengths, but there were moments when they managed to get in behind our defence,” Shirai told FIFA.

“Even so, I think our players fought incredibly hard until the very end, doing everything they could to cope with Nigeria’s speed and physical power. I also believe that if we had managed to score earlier, we might have had a better chance of winning the match.

“I want them [Japan’s players] to be proud of themselves. The way they fought until the very end of this World Cup will have inspired many people, and I hope they can take confidence from that.”

By Adeboye Amosu

Adeboye Amosu is a seasoned sports journalist and Senior Content Writer with extensive experience covering Nigerian football and international football. He specializes in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), provides insightful coverage, match reports, news, and analysis of the domestic game. Adeboye also follows the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Chelsea, bringing his knowledge of the teams, players, and competitions to his writing.