Nigeria’s Flying Eagles kicked off their FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Norway in Talca on Monday, despite creating several clear chances.
The match had a dramatic start as Kparobo Arierhi rattled the crossbar inside three minutes, signalling Nigeria’s attacking intent. But it was Norway who struck first after VAR ruled that Daniel Bameyi handled the ball in the area. Rasmus Holten converted the penalty in the 9th minute to put the Europeans ahead.
From then on, the Flying Eagles chased the game. Israel Ayuma forced Einar Fauskanger into a sharp save before Tahir Maigana fired narrowly wide. Nigeria saw more of the ball but struggled to break down a well-organised Norway side, who themselves went close through Gustav Nyheim.
The second half brought even more frustration. Arierhi saw another effort blocked, and Maigana’s left-footed strike crashed against the post in the 63rd minute, denying Nigeria a deserved equaliser. Coach Aliyu Zubairu introduced fresh legs, with Sani Suleiman and Charles Agada adding energy in attack. Agada nearly snatched a late goal but was denied in stoppage time as Norway clung on.
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VAR denied Nigeria two late penalty shouts, and despite piling on pressure deep into 11 minutes of added time, the Flying Eagles could not find a breakthrough.
The defeat leaves Nigeria bottom of Group F, knowing they must get results in their next two games to keep alive their hopes of progressing.
They play Saudi Arabia in their second game in Thursday.
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