FIFA U-20 World Cup:Flying Eagles Qualify For Round of 16, Set Up Blockbuster Clash with Argentina
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have sealed qualification for the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile after a tense 1-1 draw with Colombia in their final Group F encounter on Monday.
Daniel Bameyi once again proved to be the team’s saviour, holding his nerve to convert a late penalty in the 86th minute after a Colombian defender handled the ball in the box. The equaliser came just in time to rescue a vital point for Ladan Bosso’s side, who had trailed since the 52nd minute.
Colombia’s Kener Gonzalez had earlier opened the scoring for the South Americans with a swift counterattack that left the Nigerian defence momentarily exposed. Despite falling behind, the Flying Eagles displayed remarkable resilience and attacking intent throughout the match, striking the woodwork three times through Daniel Daga, Suleiman Sani, and Tahir Maigana.
The thrilling draw ensured Nigeria finished third in Group F with four points, advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. Colombia, with five points, topped the group, while Norway also finished on five points to secure second place after a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.
With qualification confirmed, the Flying Eagles will now face a monumental task in the Round of 16 as they take on tournament favourites Argentina on October 8. The Argentines, six-time winners of the U-20 World Cup, have been in formidable form — topping Group D with a perfect nine points, eight goals scored, and only two conceded.
Argentina began their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Cuba, followed it up with a dominant 4-1 win against Australia, and capped off the group stage with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Italy.
This upcoming encounter rekindles memories of the famous Round of 16 clash between both nations when Argentina hosted the 2001 U-20 World Cup. On that occasion, the Flying Eagles stunned the home crowd with a 2-0 win to reach the quarterfinals — a victory still fondly remembered by Nigerian football fans.
Other Round of 16 fixtures include:
Chile vs Mexico
Ukraine vs Spain
Colombia vs South Africa
USA vs Italy
Paraguay vs Norway
Japan vs France
With their confidence boosted and history on their side, the Flying Eagles will be hoping to once again rise to the occasion against the South American giants.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
