The Flying Eagles are staring down a pivotal second on the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile. After a irritating opening-day defeat, Aliyu Zubairu’s aspect will probably be determined to bounce again once they face Saudi Arabia of their second Group F conflict on Thursday.
Nigeria started their marketing campaign with a 1–0 loss to Norway, conceding early via a VAR-awarded penalty earlier than dominating massive spells of the sport with out discovering a breakthrough. Regardless of the setback, their efficiency confirmed flashes of the standard and grit which have made Nigeria one of many event’s most constant members.
This encounter with Saudi Arabia carries further weight. With Colombia and Norway already on three factors, something wanting victory might depart the Flying Eagles observing an early exit from Chile. However there’s nonetheless perception in camp. A number of gamers impressed even in defeat, hinting on the firepower to show issues round.
Listed here are 5 Flying Eagles who might show decisive towards Saudi Arabia:
1. Kparobo Ariehri
The energetic ahead was inches from scoring towards Norway when his thunderous strike rattled the crossbar.
Ariehri’s capacity to create probabilities out of nothing makes him certainly one of Nigeria’s largest attacking threats, and his sharp motion will check a Saudi defence that creaked underneath strain from Colombia.
2. Sani Suleiman
Launched within the second half, Suleiman injected vitality and direct operating that troubled the Norwegians.
Though he couldn’t discover the web, his impression off the bench was apparent. Towards Saudi Arabia, his creativity could also be important in tilting the steadiness in Nigeria’s favour.
3. Daniel Daga
The Molde FK midfielder endured a combined outing within the opener, shedding possession within the first half however rising stronger after the break. His capacity to dictate play from deep and hyperlink midfield to assault stays essential. If Daga finds his rhythm, Nigeria will achieve the management wanted to overwhelm Saudi Arabia.
4. Ebenezer Harcourt
The teenage goalkeeper might do little to cease Norway’s penalty and in any other case seemed assured between the posts.
At simply 16 years outdated, Harcourt already reveals composure past his years. Towards Saudi Arabia, his command of the field might show important in protecting Nigeria alive within the event.
5. Daniel Bameyi
The captain’s foul that led to Norway’s penalty was pricey, however his defensive qualities stay key. Bameyi will probably be desirous to redeem himself by marshalling the backline with extra composure.
A disciplined efficiency from the skipper can encourage the remainder of the squad to safe their first win.
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What’s at Stake?
That is Nigeria’s 14th U20 World Cup look, and historical past is firmly on their aspect. The Flying Eagles have crushed Saudi Arabia twice earlier than at this degree: 2-1 in 1989 en path to the ultimate, and 2-0 within the 2011 group stage.
Saudi Arabia, making their tenth look, have by no means gone past the Spherical of 16 however arrive in Chile as runners-up on the AFC U20 Asian Cup, bringing pedigree and grit.
