Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have advanced to the Round of 16 of the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Colombia at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca on Monday, Bold Sports reports.
The Flying Eagles went into the game knowing that defeat could end their campaign, and after falling behind early in the second half, they showed character and resilience to fight back and secure a vital point that sealed their passage to the knockout stage.
Colombia took the lead in the 51st minute through Kener Gonzalez, who finished off a well-worked team move to put the South Americans in front. After the goal, Nigeria came close to equalising on several occasions, with Sani Suleiman striking the bar and Tahir Maigana hitting the post as the Flying Eagles piled on the pressure.
Despite several missed chances, Nigeria refused to give up. Their persistence finally paid off in the 86th minute when Kparobo Ariehi made a brilliant solo run and laid the ball to Maigana whose shot forced a handball from Colombia defender Elkin Rivero inside the box.
More Read
Captain Daniel Bameyi, who also scored from the spot in Nigeria’s previous match against Saudi Arabia, stepped up confidently to convert the penalty and restore parity.
The goal energised the Flying Eagles, who pushed for a late winner, but Colombia held firm to preserve their point and finish as Group F leaders with five points. Norway, who drew with Saudi Arabia, finished second on goal difference, while Nigeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams with four points.
The result sets up a thrilling Round of 16 clash between Nigeria and Argentina — a repeat of the 2023 edition where the Flying Eagles famously knocked out the hosts 2-0 to reach the quarterfinals. Colombia will face South Africa, while Norway meet Paraguay.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
