Flying Eagles edge Saudi Arabia 3-2 to brighten Round of 16 chances
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 3 — 10
TALCA, CHILE – SEPTEMBER 29: Daniel Daga of Nigeria heads the ball during the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 Group F match between Norway and Nigeria at Estadio Fiscal on September 29, 2025 in Talca, Chile. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Nigeria defeated Saudi Arabia 3-2 in an eventful group F encounter in Talca on Friday morning to earn three points and brighten their chances of reaching the Round of 16 at the ongoing 24th FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile.
Midfielder Nasiru Salihu scored Nigeria’s first goal of the tournament by converting in the 10th minute, but the Asians were back on level terms in the 21st minute through Amar Alyuhaybi.
Undaunted, the seven-time African champions went in front again as Amos Ochoche scored with seven minutes left in the first period. The first half ended with Nigeria leading 2-1.
Six minutes into the second half, Saudi Arabia were again back on level terms, thanks to Talal Haji.
Nigeria secured victory with four minutes into added time when captain Daniel Bameyi converted from the penalty spot.
Victory means the two-time World Cup finalists will reach the Round of 16 if they get a result against Colombia on Monday.
