The Flying Eagles have secured a thrilling 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia in their second Group F match at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Daniel Bamayi’s well-taken stoppage time penalty sealed the victory for coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side, after Saudi Arabia had twice drawn level in the match.
The Flying Eagles had created several chances in the early stages of the match, with Nasiru Salihu having a header saved and Kparobo Arierhi hitting the post with a one-on-one effort.
However, it was Salihu who opened the scoring in the 10th minute, nodding home Sani Suleiman’s cross.
The lead was short-lived, as Saudi Arabia equalized through Amar Al Yuhaybi in the 21st minute, sneaking behind the Flying Eagles’ defence to slot past the goalkeeper.
The Flying Eagles regained the lead just before halftime, thanks to Amos Ochoche’s superb strike off a clever free kick.
However, Saudi Arabia equalized again in the 50th minute, with substitute Talal Haji heading home a long cross.
The match was intense, with both teams creating chances, but it was Bamayi’s stoppage time penalty that proved to be the winner.
The win has kept the Flying Eagles’ hopes of advancing to the next stage alive, with Colombia leading the group on four points, followed by Norway also on four points.
The Flying Eagles are third on three points, while Saudi Arabia are bottom of the group.
The Flying Eagles will face Colombia in their final group stage match on Monday, October 6.
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