The Nigeria U20 team has provided the major upset of the ongoing U20 World Cup by beating the tournament host Argentina 2-0 in the round of 16, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
As expected, the host came flying out from the start in search of an early goal but despite their loads of possession, they failed to create any meaningful opening with Nigeria defending really well.
Argentina went into the break as the better team and the more likely to score. However the second half saw a total turnaround for the Nigerian team who were battle ready and winning all of the 50-50 duels and pushed for a goal as well.
Coach Ladan Bosso threw in Emmanuel Umeh for Salem Fago Lawal and the Botev Plodiv of Bulgaria forward instantly took the game to the host and his industrious act was rewarded when his ball over the top fell nicely for Ibrahim Mohammed Beji who strike home to give Nigeria the lead in the 61st minute.
That goal sparked the host and they instantly went in search of a leveller, which almost came from the restart but the defence of Nigeria held on not only for that moment, but also for the duration of regulation time.
One minute into the eight minutes that was added on after regulation time. Two substitutes combined to put the game to bed for Nigeria. Victor Eletu held off his man and threaded the ball for Haliru Sarki who powered home with a diving header.
Nigeria hung on for a memorable win and a spot in the quarter final of the tournament , much to the disappointment of the over 27,000 spectators who came to cheer the host.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
