2025 FIFA U20 World Cup: Nigeria score late to secure dramatic 3-2 victory against Saudi Arabia

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria put up a resilient performance on Thursday night to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Saudi Arabia in their second match at the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup.

The encounter proved a nail-biter, with both sides exchanging blows before Nigeria snatched victory deep into stoppage time.

The Flying Eagles took an early lead in the 10th minute when Nasiru Salihu finished off a fine move from Suleiman Sani’s assist. Saudi Arabia responded in the 21st minute through Amar Al Yuhaybi, who converted after being set up by Hamed Youssef.

Nigeria restored their advantage in the 38th minute as Amos Ochoche struck home following an assist from Salihu, but Saudi Arabia once again pulled level early in the second half. Talal Haji made it 2-2 in the 50th minute with help from Mohammed Barnawi.

Just when the game looked set to end in a stalemate, Nigeria was awarded a penalty in added time. Captain Daniel Bameyi stepped up and coolly converted in the 94th minute to seal all three points for the Flying Eagles.

The hard-fought victory keeps Nigeria’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive after their opening defeat to Norway.

The Flying Eagles are now on three points and sit third in Group F ahead of their final group match against Colombia on Sunday, October 5.