The Flying Eagles of Nigeria continued their winning form at the 2023 FIFA U20 World cup by defeating Italy 2-0 on Tuesday to secure their place in the knockout stage of the competition.
With the victory, Nigeria joined the likes of Argentina, USA and Colombia as teams who have secured their places in the knockout phase of the competition.
The Ladan Bosso led side went into encounter with their Italian opponents with a positive attitude and desire to win. Despite the flurry of chances that the Flying Eagles had in the first half, they could not find the net. They also had to keep out the Italians to keep the match on level terms at the break.
The second half continued in the same fashion as both sides pushed for the opening goal. In the 61 minutes, Lawal Salem Fago was in the right place at the right time to give Nigeria the lead. With the goal, the Flying Eagles had a precious lead to protect while the Italians moved forward in search of an equalizer.
With the match already five minutes into added time, Sunday Jude was presented with an opportunity to put the icing on the cake and he did not disappoint as his well placed strike increased the tally for the Nigerians and ended any hope of a comeback from the Italians.
With this victory, the Flying Eagles will play their last group match against Brazil knowing that they need only a draw to secure top spot in the group.
