2026 U-17 WWC: Japan coach Shirai proud of players despite defeat to Flamingos

Japan U-17 women’s national team coach Sadayoshi Shirai has praised his players for their determination and fighting spirit despite their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.The Little Nadeshiko fell to the Flamingos at Mohammed VI Football Complex Pitch 3 in Rabat on Saturday night, as Nigeria claimed their first-ever title in the competition.