Flying Eagles Fall to Norway in U-20 World Cup Opener

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles began their campaign at the 24th FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile with a 1-0 defeat to Norway on Monday night. The decisive goal came in the ninth minute when the Europeans converted a controversial penalty. Despite dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities, the two-time runners-up were unable to find an equaliser.

Kparobo Arierhi went close shortly after the restart with a left-footed effort that drifted wide, while Tahir Maigana struck the upright in the 63rd minute. Nasiru Salihu also came close in the 71st minute, but his shot sailed narrowly over the bar.

The Nigerians pushed forward relentlessly in the closing stages, but Norway’s compact defence repelled repeated attacks. Appeals for two penalty kicks in the second half were also waved away by the referee.

The Flying Eagles will now turn their attention to their second group match against Saudi Arabia on Thursday, as they seek a crucial win to revive their campaign.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale