Nigeria Edge Saudi Arabia in Five-Goal Thriller To Revive U-20 World Cup Hopes

Nigeria Edge Saudi Arabia in Five-Goal Thriller To Revive U-20 World Cup Hopes

By BSN Sports 

 The Flying Eagles of Nigeria reignited their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in a high-octane Group F encounter at Estadio Fiscal on Friday morning, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

A stoppage-time penalty from captain Daniel Bameyi proved decisive in a pulsating match that saw both sides exchange blows in one of the tournament’s most entertaining contests so far.

Electric Start in Talca

Still reeling from an opening-day defeat, Nigeria came into the match needing a response — and delivered almost immediately. Forward Nasiru Salihu capitalised on a defensive error to slot home inside 10 minutes, giving the West Africans an early lead and injecting life into their tournament hopes.

Saudi Arabia responded in style. In the 21st minute, Amar Al Yuhaybi produced a moment of magic, lifting a delicate chip over Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezar Harcourt to level the score, a contender for goal of the tournament.

But Nigeria were far from finished. As the tempo remained relentless, Amos Ochoche restored the lead in the 38th minute with a crisp finish, ensuring the Flying Eagles went into the break ahead, 2-1.

Saudi Arabia Strike Back

The Green Falcons regrouped after halftime, and coach Saleh Al-Muhamadi’s tactical adjustments quickly paid off. Just six minutes after being introduced, substitute Talal Haji connected with a lofted ball from Mohammed Barnawi, guiding a deft header past Harcourt to make it 2-2.

From that point, both teams pushed for a winner. Salihu and Ochoche continued to test the Saudi defence, while the Asian side remained dangerous on the counterattack.

Bameyi Delivers in Added Time

With the match appearing destined for a draw, Nigeria’s persistence finally paid off in the 94th minute. Sustained pressure forced a mistake in the Saudi defence, leading to a penalty. Bameyi stepped up with composure and dispatched the spot-kick confidently, sealing a crucial victory for the Flying Eagles.

The win lifts Nigeria to third place in Group F, reviving hopes of advancing to the knockout stages. Saudi Arabia, still without a point, now face a must-win scenario in their remaining fixtures.

Post-Match Reactions

Daniel Bameyi, Nigeria captain:

“As captain, it was my responsibility to step up. I knew I had to score for my team, and I’m glad I kept my composure.”

Aliyu Zubairu, Nigeria head coach:

“We showed resilience tonight. The boys never gave up, and that’s the spirit we need to carry forward in this tournament.”

What It Means

Nigeria’s six-time finalist pedigree was on full display marked by attacking intent, mental toughness, and late-game grit. For Saudi Arabia, the loss was a painful reminder of how fine the margins can be at this level.

With momentum now firmly on their side, the Flying Eagles will look to carry this fighting spirit into their remaining group matches.