The Flying Eagles of Nigeria kept their FIFA U20 World Cup campaign alive with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in a Group F clash on Thursday in Talca, Chile.
The result gave the Nigerian side their first three points of the tournament and significantly brightened their chances of qualifying for the Round of 16.
Nigeria began the encounter with intent, pressing the Saudis high up the pitch and controlling possession in the early minutes. Their positive approach was rewarded when Nasiru Salihu struck in the 10th minute, finishing a well-worked move to put the Flying Eagles in front.
The goal lifted the confidence of the team, with the Nigerian midfield dictating the tempo and forcing the Saudis to sit deeper.
However, Saudi Arabia found their way back into the contest. In the 21st minute, Amar Alyuhaybi capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire past the Nigerian goalkeeper and restore parity.
The equaliser shifted the momentum, with both sides trading attacks in a pulsating first half.
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Just when it seemed the game would be evenly poised at the break, Amos Ochoche rose to the occasion. With seven minutes left before halftime, the winger drove into the box and coolly slotted home, restoring Nigeria’s lead. The Flying Eagles carried the 2-1 advantage into the interval, but the Saudis were far from beaten.
The second half resumed at a frantic pace, and Saudi Arabia wasted little time in clawing back. Six minutes after the restart, forward Talal Haji struck with precision, once again punishing Nigeria’s backline to make it 2-2.
The goal spurred the Middle Eastern side into greater confidence, and for large spells, they looked more likely to snatch a winner.
But Nigeria refused to give up. Head coach Ladan Bosso made key tactical changes, introducing fresh legs to re-energize the attack. The Flying Eagles pushed relentlessly, but Saudi Arabia’s defence stood firm as the clock ticked into added time.
Just when the contest looked destined for a draw, Nigeria was handed a lifeline. Deep into stoppage time, the referee awarded a penalty after a Saudi defender handled the ball inside the box.
Captain Daniel Bameyi stepped up under immense pressure and confidently dispatched the spot-kick, sparking wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans in the stands.
The 3-2 victory means the Flying Eagles now sit on three points in Group F. A draw in their next fixture against Colombia on Monday will be enough to guarantee progression to the Round of 16, though a win would further strengthen their chances of topping the group.
NAN
