Nigeria scored a last-minute penalty to eliminate Saudi Arabia, South Africa netted five goals against New Caledonia, and a resolute Norway defense managed to hold Colombia to a goalless draw.
In a thrilling match in Talca between two teams eager to recover from initial losses, Nigeria clinched a 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia with a late penalty conversion at theEstadio Fiscal de Talca on Friday.
Nigerian goals from Nasiru Salihu and Amos Ochoche, positioned around a clever dink from Amar Al Yuhaybi, concluded an exhilarating first half with Nigeria leading 2-1.
Just six minutes into the second half, Talal Haji, who came on as a substitute at halftime, connected with a lobbed pass from Mohammed Barnawi and sent a header over Ebenezar Harcourt to equalize for the second time.
As the match seemed poised for a draw, Nigeria was awarded a late penalty, which captain Daniel Bameyi successfully converted in the fourth minute of injury time. This victory places the Flying Eagles in third position in the group, while Saudi Arabia faces elimination.
Quotes – “The players determined that they needed to give their all for the three points today, and that commitment is what drove them. Now it’s clear that we need to strive for the three points against Colombia; it’s that simple,” said Aliyu Zubair, the coach of Nigeria.
Nigeria 3-2 Saudi Arabia
Nigeria goals: Nasiru Salihu (10), Amos Ochoche (38), Daniel Bameyi (90+4) Saudi Arabia goals: Amar Al Yuhaybi (21), Talal Haji (51)
