U-20 World Cup: Flying Eagles begin campaign with loss to Norway

By Tosin Omojola –

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles kicked off their campaign in the 24th FIFA U-20 World Cup on a shaky note, after they were beaten 1-0 by Norway on Monday night.

The two-time silver medallists conceded an early goal to the Norwegians, who held onto the early strike to pick up the three points.

The Group F match, played at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca, Chile, saw the Scandinavian country score the only goal in the 9th minute via a penalty kick converted by Rasmos Holten.

In what was the first-ever clash between the two countries, the Nigerian lads failed to find a breakthrough despite a dominant performance.

The Nigerians were undone by controversial refereeing decisions towards the end of the match, having had their calls for a penalty on two occasions declined.

The Flying Eagles will hope to bounce back from the defeat when they face Saudi Arabia in their second game on Thursday.

In his post-match remarks, Flying Eagles’ coach Aliyu Zubair said. “The boys gave their all, just unlucky at key moments.

“Possession doesn’t win games; if one of those chances had gone in, it would’ve been different. Now we move — focus on Saudi Arabia, and we go for the 3 points.”