Nigeria Flies Into Knockout Stage of U20 World Cup

As a result, the Flying Eagles now have six points after two games in Group D, while the Azzurri have three points. Both teams have now qualified for the knockout round.

In a thrilling match on Wednesday at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Argentina 2023, Nigeria overcame Italy thanks to a diving header from Salim Fago Lawal and a last-second goal from Jude Sunday.

As a result, the Flying Eagles now have six points after two games in Group D, while the Azzurri have three points. Both teams have now qualified for the knockout round.

In the first half, there were opportunities for both teams, and Kingsley Aniagboso was tested by Tommaso Baldanzi. Just after the hour mark, the opening goal was scored.

Gabriele Guarino and Umeh Emmanuel clashed inside the Italian box at the halftime break, but the latter sprang straight up and dribbled the ball back across goal. Salim Fago Lawal leaped into the air and dove into a net that was only partially secured.

Following that, Nigeria’s excellent defense limited Italy to outside-the-box attempts. The greatest of them was Daniele Montevago, but he curled his shot wide.

The Flying Eagles then made certain of the win in stoppage time. The assist was given by goalkeeper Aniagboso, whose punt upfield was received by the raging Sunday, who smashed it across the goal and into the bottom corner.