Nigeria snatch dramatic late win over Saudi Arabia to keep U-20 World Cup hopes alive

Nigeria kept their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign alive with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in Talca on Thursday night, secured by captain Daniel Bameyi’s stoppage-time penalty.

The Flying Eagles, who had lost their opening match to Norway, came into the contest under pressure to deliver and twice surrendered the lead before holding their nerve in the dying moments.

Nasiru Salihu struck early in the 10th minute with a well-placed effort, only for Amar Al Yuhaybi to equalise with a delightful dink eleven minutes later.

Nigeria restored their advantage before half-time when Amos Ochoche rifled home in the 38th minute, capping an energetic first half.

Saudi Arabia, fighting to stay in the tournament, struck back just six minutes into the second half when substitute Talal Haji rose to head in Mohammed Barnawi’s lofted pass to make it 2-2.

Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Nigeria forced the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.

A foul in the Saudi box allowed Bameyi to step up, and the captain showed composure to convert from the spot in the 94th minute, sealing a vital win that puts Nigeria third in Group F.

Head coach Aliyu Zubair praised his players’ determination: “The players made up their minds that they had to go all out for the three points here and that is what motivated them. Now it’s simple — we have to go all out for the three points against Colombia.”

The result keeps Nigeria’s knockout stage hopes alive heading into their final group match against Colombia on Sunday.