Argentina 2023: Flying Eagles Battle Past Dominican Republic

#U20WC

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria got off to a brilliant start in their U20 FIFA World Cup Group D campaign, beating debutants Dominican Republic 2-1 at the Estadio Malvinas Argetinas in Mendoza, Argentina.

Striker Ibrahim Muhammad started in attack for Nigeria, with Sunday Jude and Salim Figo Lawal supporting on the flanks. Dominican Republic featured Anyelo Gomez up-front, with Derek Cuevas and Yunior Peralta on the wings.

A penalty was awarded to Dominican Republic when defender Benjamin Fredrick fouled Guillermo de Peno in the box. Midfielder Edison Azcona stepped up to fire the spot kick into the net past goalkeeper Chijioke Aniagboso in the 22^nd minute.

In the 31^st minute, Nigeria equalised after an own-goal by Dominican Republic defender de Pena. A bit of luck in a complete turn-of-events for the Flying Eagles.

• Read more: About 12 Killed In El Salvador Football Stadium Crush

However, midfielder Samson Lawal then profited from a clumsy back pass by Dominican Republic to put Nigeria ahead in the 70^th minute.

The match finished 2-1 in favour of the Nigerians, who fought from a goal down to beat a formidable Dominican Republic side.

The Flying Eagles Nigeria now tops Group D with three (3) points from a must-win game and would be hoping to take the momentum into the next encounter.

Ladan Bosso’s side will be back in action on Wednesday, May 24th when they take on Italy in their second group game.

Brazil and Italy will face off in the other group encounter.

Come from behind W🦅

Three points in the bag!

Italy up next on Wednesday #NGADOM #SoarFlyingEagles #U20WC pic.twitter.com/EwI23ppf61

— The NFF 🇳🇬 (@thenff) May 21, 2023