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Nigeria’s Flying Eagles return to the pitch tonight in Talca knowing their U20 World Cup survival is on the line, Footynaija.com reports.
After a wasteful 1-0 defeat to Norway, Aliyu Zubairu’s side must take three points against Saudi Arabia or risk a premature exit.
Here are a few things to note ahead of the crucial Group F clash.
Both teams lost their openers
Nigeria fell 1-0 to Norway despite dominating possession and chances, while Saudi Arabia also went down 1-0 against Colombia.
Saudi Arabia’s outstanding star is their GK
The Green Falcons defended with numbers against Colombia but still had goalkeeper Hamed Al Shanqiti to thank for the respectable scoreline. Al Shanqiti produced several top class saves in the encounter and will look to frustrate Nigeria as well.
History is on Nigeria’s side
The two nations have met twice at this tournament. Nigeria’s Flying Eagles defeated Saudi Arabia in both previous U20 World Cup meetings: 2-1 in 1989 and 2-0 in 2011.
Nigeria’s tournament pedigree
This is Nigeria’s 14th appearance at the U20 World Cup. They have twice been runners-up (1989, 2005) and only twice failed to progress from the group stage.
Saudi Arabia’s record
The Saudis are at their 10th U20 World Cup. Their best result remains reaching the Round of 16, achieved in 2011 and 2017.
Key Nigerian threat
Several Nigerian stars did not live up to the billing against Norway on matchday one with only winger Tahir Maigana looking lively. Kparobo Arierhi and Israel Ayuma may get another chance to show their talent while Sani Suleiman, Chelsea-target Abduljelil Kamaldeen and Auwal Ibrahim could prove to be valuable jokers for coach Aliyu Zubairu.
What’s at stake?
Colombia and Norway already have three points. Another defeat for Nigeria or Saudi Arabia would leave their tournament hopes hanging by a thread.
Kick-off details
The match takes place at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca, Chile. Kick-off is at 12 midnight Nigerian time on Thursday, 3 October.
