Nigeria’s Flamingos Forward, Oluebube Umejiaku, has expressed her excitement after receiving the Player of the Match award following Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Mexico in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The Forward described the recognition as a moment she had been looking forward to for a long time, explaining that her hard work and determination made the achievement particularly special.

She expressed her happiness at finally receiving the individual honour, noting that she had given her best in pursuit of the recognition.

Reflecting on the encounter against Mexico, Umejiaku admitted that it was a difficult contest, describing the Mexican side as strong, physical and technically capable.

She also highlighted the collective effort of the Nigerian team, revealing that the players remained united, prayed together and followed the instructions of the coaching crew to secure the important victory.

According to the forward, the guidance and tactical instructions from the technical crew played an important role in helping the Flamingos overcome their opponents and book a place in the quarter-finals.

Umejiaku’s recognition further highlights her growing influence in Nigeria’s campaign, having scored in the victories over Korea DPR and Mexico after previously finding the net against Poland.