Nigeria’s Flying Eagles picked up their first victory at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup after a dramatic 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia in Talca on Friday, with captain Daniel Bameyi scoring a late penalty to seal all three points, Bold Sports reports.
The win came as a much-needed response following Nigeria’s opening-game defeat to Norway, and while defensive lapses almost cost them, goals from Salihu Nasiru, Amos Ochoche and Bameyi’s decisive spot-kick ensured they got their campaign back on track.
The Flying Eagles made a fast start, taking the lead in the 10th minute when Salihu Nasiru headed home from a fine cross. But defensive errors soon crept in, and Saudi Arabia equalised in the 21st minute as Amar Al Yuhaybi pounced on a long ball to make it 1-1.
Nigeria regained their advantage before the break through a brilliantly executed set-piece routine finished off by Amos Ochoche, giving Aliyu Zubairu’s side a 2-1 lead at half-time.
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However, Saudi Arabia responded after the restart through teenage forward Talal Haji, who came off the bench and immediately punished another defensive lapse by heading past goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt. The 18-year-old nearly gave the Saudis the lead minutes later, only to see his shot crash against the post.
With the game finely balanced, Zubairu introduced Haruna Aliyu and Charles Agada, and the substitutions eventually proved decisive. In the dying minutes, Agada’s header struck the arm of Awad Aman inside the box, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Captain Bameyi held his nerve to convert, restoring Nigeria’s lead and securing a vital 3-2 victory.
The result lifts the Flying Eagles to third in Group F with three points. In the other group fixture, Colombia and Norway played out a goalless draw, leaving Colombia top and Norway second on four points each.
Nigeria will now turn their focus to their final group game against Colombia, where victory could secure automatic progression to the knockout stage.
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