Nigeria’s Flying Eagles advanced in the FIFA U20 World Cup with a thrilling 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia on Friday morning, highlighted by a stoppage-time penalty from captain Daniel Bameyi.
After a tough start with a 1-0 loss to Norway, coach Aliyu Zubairu’s team needed a win to stay in the tournament. They kicked off strongly, taking the lead in the 10th minute when Sani Suleiman’s cross found Salihu Nasiru, who scored with a header.
Saudi Arabia equalized in the 21st minute with Amar Al Yuhaybi taking advantage of poor defense. Nigeria quickly regained the lead in the 38th minute when Amos Ochoche scored from a clever set-piece, with Nasiru contributing again.
The Saudis responded just five minutes into the second half, as Talal Haji headed in to level the game at 2-2, exploiting Nigeria’s defensive lapses. The match continued with chances for both sides. Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi, Charles Agada, and Israel Ayuma pressed hard, but none found the net.
As the match neared its end, it seemed Nigeria might be denied victory. However, in stoppage time, a handball by a Saudi defender led to a penalty. Skipper Bameyi stepped up, remaining composed to convert the crucial penalty and secure Nigeria’s first win in the tournament.
This victory places Nigeria in third position in Group F, just below Colombia. Next, the Flying Eagles will take on the South Americans on Monday, where a win would guarantee a place in the round of 16.