Nigeria’s Flying Eagles began their FIFA U20 World Cup preparations with a 1-1 draw against Chile in Rancagua on Saturday night.
Aliyu Zubairu’s side made a strong start and took the lead in the 18th minute when Tahir Maigana delivered a pinpoint corner that Ahmed Akinyele met with a powerful header to cap Nigeria’s early dominance. Daniel Bameyi anchored the defence with authority, while Charles Agada and Ayuma Israel carried the attacking threat.
Chile, however, struck back against the run of play in the 36th minute as a lapse in concentration at the back allowed Felipe Faúndez to find space and fire home the equaliser. The goal shifted momentum in favour of the hosts, who pressed forward and forced Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt into two sharp saves early in the second half.
Zubairu made several changes after the break, introducing Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Kparobo Arhieri, and Auwal Ibrahim to inject fresh energy. The substitutions lifted Nigeria’s tempo, but both teams ultimately cancelled each other out in midfield duels, leaving the contest without further goals.
Despite the draw, there were encouraging signs for the Flying Eagles, who showed organisation, intensity, and resilience after conceding. However, lapses in defensive focus remain an area of concern ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria will face Australia on Tuesday in their final warm-up fixture before the FIFA U20 World Cup kicks off in South America, with Zubairu keen to see sharper finishing and a more ruthless edge from his players.
