Nigeria is set to take on Argentina following their 1-1 draw with Colombia, the same team they knocked out in the Round of 16 two years ago. Meanwhile, Colombia will go up against South Africa.
Following a spectacular 1–1 tie with Colombia in Talca, Nigeria progressed to the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™. Securing one of the last qualification places as among the top third-placed teams on Sunday night.
Twice denied by the woodwork and defeated several times by Colombia’s outstanding goalie Jordan García, the flying eagles put on a spirited performance.
Early on, they ruled, but six minutes into the second half, Kener González broke the tie with a brilliant finish following a rapid Colombian counter.
With striker Nasiru Salihu and midfielder Amos Ochoche both nearly scoring, Aliyu Zubair’s side refused to give up and pressed for an equaliser.
Their perseverance eventually paid off four minutes from time when captain Daniel Bameyi retained his cool from the penalty spot for the second straight game. Turning calmly will get Nigeria to a critical point.
Colombia was guaranteed to head Group F as a result, while Nigeria’s four points were enough to advance them as one of the best third-place teams.
With the Flying Eagles set to meet the same adversary they knocked out at the same point of the 2023 tournament in Argentina, their upcoming conflict provides additional interest.
Nigeria coach Aliyu Zubair said, “It wasn’t easy, but we were proactive. Knowing they are good on the ball and physically strong, we sought to restrict their passing lanes, therefore giving us a somewhat edge. Our main aim was to make the next round; who we would have to face does not concern us.
Nigeria’s success emphasises how three of the four African countries—Morocco, South Africa, and Nigeria—have advanced to the knockout rounds. Growing the continent’s power in adolescent football.
