Flying Eagles Edge Saudi Arabia 3-2 With Stoppage-Time Penalty at U-20 World Cup

Flying Eagles Edge Saudi Arabia 3-2 With Stoppage-Time Penalty at U-20 World Cup

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles revived their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in their second Group F clash in Chile, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty converted by captain Daniel Bamayi.

How the Match Unfolded

The Flying Eagles took the lead in the 10th minute when Nasiru Salihu nodded home a cross from Sani Suleiman. But Saudi Arabia responded quickly, with Amar Al Yuhaybi equalising in the 21st minute after capitalising on a defensive lapse.

Nigeria regained the lead in the 38th minute as Amos Ochoche fired in a superb strike from a well-worked free kick. However, Saudi Arabia once again restored parity in the second half, with substitute Talal Haji heading past goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt in the 50th minute.

With the game seemingly heading for a draw, the Flying Eagles were awarded a penalty in stoppage time after a Saudi defender handled the ball inside the box. Bamayi held his nerve, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way in the 94th minute to seal the hard-fought win.

Group F Standings After Second Round

Following the result, Colombia and Norway—who played out a goalless draw in the group’s other fixture—sit top with four points each. Nigeria now move to third with three points, while Saudi Arabia remain bottom without a point.

The Flying Eagles will face a crucial final group match against Colombia on Monday, October 6, where a positive result could secure their progression to the knockout stage.

The win provides a major boost for coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side after their opening-day defeat to Norway, keeping alive their hopes of advancing in the competition.

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