Sports
U20WC: Flying Eagles Stun Italy 2-0, Advances To Round Of 16
In an outstanding match during the second matchday of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina, the Flying Eagles emerged victorious over Italy.
Nigeria’s team showcased remarkable skills as Salem Fago and Jude Sunday both scored their debut goals, leading their country to a 2-0 triumph in the Group D encounter held at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas on Wednesday evening.
Despite being relatively ineffective during the 53 minutes he spent on the field in the Flying Eagles’ 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic on Sunday night, the 20-year-old player emerged as the hero when Nigeria secured their spot in the tournament’s knockout rounds with their second consecutive win.
Daniel Daga had the sight of the goal in the right minute but his low drive went off target.
In the 15th minute, Nigeria was awarded their first corner kick, and Salim Fago had an opportunity to score with a header, but unfortunately, he directed the ball over the crossbar despite a well-executed delivery.
Italy came close to scoring in the 21st minute when Pafundi skillfully evaded two Nigerian defenders and delivered a low cross.
Cesare Casadei connected with the cross and unleashed a quick shot that struck the crossbar. Nigeria swiftly cleared the ball after the close call.
Jude Sunday, who proved to be the most thrilling Nigerian attacker, had a promising chance just before the half-hour mark as he found some space on the edge of the box.
However, his final shot narrowly missed the target, whistling past the left post.
Shortly after, Agbalaka got at the end of another Nigerian corner but he was only able to head wide.
The Flying Eagles finally worked the Italian goalkeeper after Fago ran unto Abdullahi’s throughball and lashed a fierce drive that the goalie pushed past for a corner.
In a critical moment, Agbalaka was involved in a potential handball inside the box, which could have resulted in a penalty for Italy. However, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) intervened and saved Nigeria as it detected an earlier handball committed by an Italian player.
Towards the end of the first half, Aniagboso showcased his alertness by skillfully diverting a powerful long-range shot over the post, resulting in a corner for Italy. However, the corner failed to yield any significant opportunity for the Italian team.
The Flying Eagles demonstrated an impressive defensive performance, successfully thwarting the Italian team’s attacks.
It was particularly noteworthy considering Italy’s previous performance, where they scored three goals within the first 30 minutes against Brazil on matchday one.
Just seconds into the second half, Italy posed a threat, launching an attack that almost resulted in a goal.
However, Nigeria’s resilient defense managed to clear the ball off the goal line just in time, preventing it from trickling into the net after a well-executed interplay.
In response to Italy’s close call, Nigeria reacted swiftly as the team’s captain, Bameyi, unleashed a powerful strike from 25 yards, testing the goalkeeper who was forced to make a save as he felt the sting in his palms.
Following a period of intense back-and-forth play between the two teams, Nigeria finally managed to break the deadlock on the hour mark.
During a decisive moment, a well-executed cross found its way to Samson Lawal inside the box.
Lawal skillfully evaded a challenge and displayed excellent precision by finding an unmarked Fago, who then confidently headed the ball into the net, securing the opening goal of the match for Nigeria.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the dates for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, setting the stage for a historic tournament to be jointly hosted by three countries for the first time.
According to CAF, the competition—branded “PAMOJA 2027”—will kick off on June 19, 2027, and conclude with the final on July 17, 2027.
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The tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, marking a significant milestone in the history of African football.
CAF noted that the venues for both the opening match and the final will be confirmed at a later date, as preparations continue across the three host nations.
Describing the tournament as a landmark initiative, CAF said the joint hosting arrangement is expected to boost regional unity and enhance football development across East Africa.
The body also highlighted the opportunity to engage a massive audience of over 400 million people within the region.
In addition, CAF released details of the qualification process ahead of the tournament.
The draw for the qualifiers is scheduled to take place on May 19, 2026, following the preliminary rounds.
A total of 48 teams, including the host nations, will compete in the qualifiers.
The teams will be grouped into 12 groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the final tournament.
The qualification matches will be played across three FIFA international windows: from September 21 to October 6, 2026; November 9 to 17, 2026; and March 22 to 30, 2027.
With the announcement, anticipation is already building for what is expected to be one of the most unique and widely watched editions of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has commended the speedy and qualitative ongoing remodelling of Osogbo stadium, announcing that the sitting capacity of the modernised and upgraded stadium is to increase from 4000 to 15,000 upon completion.
Speaking after an early morning daily project review session which started since last week, the governor said the increased capacity will attract major sporting events to boost development of all games in the state.
“Upon completion, Osun will be qualified to host local and international events. Sports development will take a new tone. Our young population will have a big supportive platform to develop their talents”, the governor noted at the meeting.
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He particularly expressed happiness at the involvement of several foreign technical partners who are working with the contractors to ensure that the new stadium satisfy FIFA standard to eventually secure FIFA certification.
“In remodelling the stadium, we must satisfy global standards. I am happy at the involvement of local and international experts to ensure we meet FIFA and all associated standards. This is the way to go to finally integrate Osun into the mainstream of sports development in the country.
“As a sport loving governor, I am eager to ensure that the Osun Sport Trust Fund becomes operational. We are working round the clock to meet legal requirements and develop appropriate policy framework among others.
“We are working to also fully operationalise the Osun State Sport Commission. This and other structures are being put in place to address the many challenges facing the Sport sector. I have a vision of an Osun state sport sector with modern facilities, empowered workforce and big opportunities for sportsmen and women.
While commending the contractor for a job well done so far, Governor Adeleke commended the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi who doubled as the Commissioner for Sports, for demonstrating deep commitment to the completion of the project.
Manager of Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, has thrown his full support behind rising midfielder Nico O’Reilly, insisting the youngster deserves to be crowned Premier League Young Player of the Season after a breakthrough campaign.
Guardiola made the remarks on Monday following Manchester City’s 2-1 victory over Arsenal, a result that further strengthened their push in the title race.
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In the match, O’Reilly delivered another impressive performance, playing with composure and confidence beyond his years.
The youngster also provided an assist for Erling Haaland, helping City secure a crucial win at a key stage of the season.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola was emphatic in his praise for the teenager, suggesting there should be no debate about the award.
“O’Reilly deserves the Young Player of the Season. What a season he has had,” Guardiola said. “I don’t know who will win the overall Player of the Season, but for the young category, it has to be Nico.”
The statement has since gained wide attention, especially after being highlighted by football journalist Fabrizio Romano on social media.
O’Reilly’s emergence has been one of the bright spots in Manchester City’s campaign, with the midfielder earning praise for his versatility, maturity on the ball, and ability to step up in high-pressure games despite his young age.
As the season enters its final stretch, Guardiola’s strong endorsement is expected to boost O’Reilly’s profile in the race for individual honours.
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