Nigeria reignited its hopes of progressing to the knockout stages of the U20 World Cup with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Estadio Fiscal in Talca, Chile.
The Flying Eagles drew first blood in the 10th minute when Nasiru Salihu found the net, giving Nigeria an early lead.
Saudi Arabia responded with determination, keeping the game tightly contested, but Nigeria managed to maintain their advantage through resilient defending and tactical discipline.
The match reached its climax in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Daniel Bameyi calmly converted a penalty, securing a hard-fought and vital win for his side.
“This victory is crucial for us,” said a Nigerian team official. “It not only boosts our morale but keeps our dream of reaching the last 16 very much alive.”
The win puts Nigeria in a stronger position in Group F ahead of their final group-stage match against Colombia, a clash that will effectively determine which team advances to the knockout phase.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s U20 team, the Amajita, also kept their qualification hopes alive with a commanding 5-0 win over New Caledonia at the El Teniente stadium in Rancagua.
The emphatic performance has placed them in a favorable position within Group E, setting up a decisive showdown against the United States in their final group fixture.
Among African representatives, Morocco has already booked its place in the last 16, topping Group C following victories over Spain and Brazil, showcasing their dominance and consistency throughout the group stage.
With Nigeria facing Colombia and South Africa preparing to clash with the United States, the upcoming matches are being described as virtual finals, carrying enormous stakes for both African sides.
Analysts predict high-intensity battles, where precision, composure, and mental resilience will be decisive in determining which teams will advance in this highly competitive U20 tournament.
For Nigeria, the Flying Eagles’ late triumph represents not only a revival of hope but also a statement of intent, signaling that they remain formidable contenders in this global youth competition.
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