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Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Chile in their opening warm-up match ahead of the FIFA U20 World Cup in South America, Footynaija.com reports.
Aliyu Zubairu’s side looked the brighter team in the early exchanges, dictating play with neat midfield combinations and swift transitions.
Their persistence was rewarded after just 18 minutes when Tahir Maigana’s corner was expertly met by Ahmed Akinyele, whose towering header left the Chilean goalkeeper stranded.
However, the South Americans gradually grew into the contest. A defensive lapse in the 36th minute proved costly as Chile pounced to level matters, punishing the Flying Eagles’ momentary loss of concentration.
The equaliser shifted momentum, but Nigeria continued to show fight. Charles Agada’s movement in attack and Ayuma Israel’s energy kept the Chileans honest, even as both sides tested each other in an increasingly tight second half.
Coach Zubairu rang the changes after the interval to assess his squad depth, introducing fresh legs across the pitch. Despite flashes of quality, neither team could find the decisive touch, leaving the contest locked at 1-1 at full-time.
The Flying Eagles now turn their attention to a second friendly against Australia on Tuesday, September 23, as preparations intensify for the global showpiece.
