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Flying Eagles edge Saudi Arabia in five-goal thriller at U20 World Cup
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s U-20 national team grabbed their first win of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in dramatic fashion, edging Saudi Arabia 3-2 in a pulsating contest that went right down to stoppage time.
The Flying Eagles made their intentions clear early on. In the 11th minute, Nasiru Salihu rose highest to meet Sani Suleiman’s pinpoint cross, thundering a header into the net for Nigeria’s opener.
Despite Nigeria’s dominance, missed chances proved costly, and Saudi Arabia struck back in the 21st minute through Amar Al Yuhaybi, who latched onto a loose ball to level matters.
Nigeria restored their lead before the break. A clever set-piece routine in the 38th minute saw Amos Ochoche finish clinically, sending the Flying Eagles into halftime with a deserved 2-1 advantage.
The Saudis came out fighting after the restart, and Talal Haji punished a defensive lapse in the 50th minute to make it 2-2, setting up a tense, end-to-end battle.
Both teams went close, with the woodwork and wasted chances keeping the score level deep into stoppage time.
Just when it seemed the points would be shared, Nigeria won a penalty in the 90+4th minute. Captain Daniel Bameyi held his nerve, calmly converting from the spot to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory.
The result boosts Nigeria’s hopes of advancing in the competition, while offering a timely reminder of the Flying Eagles’ fighting spirit on the world stage.
