Drama in Talca: Captain Bameyi's Last-Gasp Penalty Seals Thrilling 3-2 Win for Flying Eagles

TALCA, CHILE—Nigeria's Flying Eagles revived their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign in the most dramatic fashion, securing a pulsating 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia at the Estadio Fiscal in Talca. A decisive penalty in the 94th minute, coolly converted by captain Daniel Bameyi, sealed the crucial three points and sparked joyous scenes for the Nigerian contingent.

The Group F encounter was a five-goal thriller that saw the lead change hands and the scores tied twice before the final whistle.

Goals, Goals, Goals in Breathless First Half

Determined to bounce back from their opening day defeat to Norway, the Flying Eagles started with intent. They were quickly rewarded in the 10th minute when striker Nasiru Salihu pounced on a defensive error and finished confidently to give Nigeria the lead.

The advantage was short-lived, however, as Saudi Arabia equalised in the 21st minute through a sublime strike from Amar Al Yuhaybi, a brilliant dink over the Nigerian goalkeeper, Ebenezar Harcourt.

Nigeria regained the lead before the break when Amos Ochoche rifled home a superb strike in the 38th minute, ensuring the Flying Eagles went into halftime with a 2-1 lead in a breathless opening period.

Late Drama Secures Victory

The Young Green Falcons came out strong after the restart, and an inspired substitution quickly paid off. Substitute Talal Haji levelled the scores at 2-2 in the 50th minute, guiding a well-placed header past Harcourt.

The remainder of the second half was a tense, end-to-end battle as both teams pushed for a winner, knowing a draw would severely dent their qualification hopes. Just when it seemed the points would be shared, Nigeria's relentless pressure in stoppage time finally broke the Saudi defence, earning a penalty in the 94th minute.

With the weight of the nation resting on his shoulders, captain Daniel Bameyi stepped up to the spot and calmly slotted the ball home, securing a vital 3-2 win for the Flying Eagles.

Group F Race Wide Open

The dramatic victory has propelled Nigeria back into the race for the knockout stage. With the other Group F match between Colombia and Norway ending in a goalless draw, the group standings remain tight heading into the final round of fixtures.

Nigeria will now face a challenging final group match against Colombia, where a victory could confirm their spot in the Round of 16. The resilience shown by the Flying Eagles in this comeback victory will be a massive boost of confidence as they look to secure their destiny in the tournament.

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Final Score: Nigeria U20 3-2 Saudi Arabia U20

Nigeria Goalscorers: Nasiru Salihu (10'), Amos Ochoche (38'), Daniel Bameyi (90'+4, pen)

Saudi Arabia Goalscorers: Amar Al Yuhaybi (21'), Talal Haji (50').