FIFA U20 World Cup: Nigeria vs Italy Preview – Flying Eagles eye Azzurrini scalp

Nigeria face Italy in a highly anticipated Group D encounter on matchday two of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.

The outcome of this crucial encounter will determine which team secures a spot in the Round of 16 as the Flying Eagles and Italy will be seeking to go on to the next round when they square off against one another.

Ladan Bosso-led team. qualified for this year’s World Cup by placing third in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in March, where Argentina was the destination for the four semifinalists.

The Flying Eagles will enter the high-profile match off a tenacious 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic in their opening match played last Sunday at Estadio Malvinas.

Italy, on the other hand, will enter the U20 World Cup matchup following their thrilling 3-2 victory against five-time winners  Brazil.

Nigeria are making their 13th appearance at the tournament and reached the final in 1989 and 2005, while Italy have participated seven times before, with their best result being a third-place finish in 2017.

However, both teams have met only once in the tournament history, with Italy prevailing with a 2-0 victory in Chile in 1987, securing their place at the top of Group B and sending Nigeria to an early exit.