Nigeria’s Flying Eagles began their World Cup preparations with a 1-1 draw against Chile in Rancagua on Saturday night.
Aliyu Zubairu’s team made a strong start and went ahead in the 18th minute. Tahir Maigana delivered a fine corner, and Ahmed Akinyele rose highest to head home. Daniel Bameyi led the defence with confidence, while Charles Agada and Ayuma Israel carried much of the attacking threat.
Chile, however, levelled the score in the 36th minute after a defensive error allowed Felipe Faúndez to find space and finish. The equaliser lifted the hosts, who pressed hard in the second half and forced Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt into two big saves just after the restart.
Nigeria brought on Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Kparobo Arhieri and Auwal Ibrahim in the second half. The substitutes added energy but neither side managed to find a winner, with much of the play fought in midfield.
Despite the draw, there were positives for the Flying Eagles. They pressed well, stayed organised, and showed character after conceding. Still, defensive lapses remain a concern as the World Cup draws closer.
Next up for Nigeria is another tough test against Australia on Tuesday, their final friendly before the FIFA U20 World Cup kicks off. Coach Zubairu will be hoping his team sharpen their finishing and become more clinical in front of goal.
