FIFA U-20 World Cup: Flying Eagles eye first blow as Norway seek to break group-stage jinx

Femi Fabunmi

The countdown is over as Nigeria and Norway prepare to kick off their FIFA U20 World Cup campaigns in Chile. Both sides know the importance of a strong start, with the Estadio Fiscal de Talca set to host the highly anticipated clash on Monday, September 29th, at 21:00 West African Time.

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles arrive in Chile with pedigree and ambition. Making their 14th appearance at the tournament, the West Africans have twice finished as runners-up in 1989 (Saudi Arabia) and 2005 (Netherlands).

Now, with a blend of homegrown talent and Europe-based stars, coach Aliyu Zubair believes his boys are ready to sharpen their attack and make another bold statement on the global stage.

Norway, on the other hand, are making just their fourth appearance at this level. The Young Vikings, coached by Bjorn Johansen, are yet to progress beyond the group stage in their previous outings. However, having fought through Europe’s competitive play-offs, they arrive in Chile determined to change history.

The Squads

Nigeria’s team is packed with exciting prospects. Goalkeepers Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos), Clinton Ezekiel (Bayelsa United), and Rufa’i Abubakar (Mavlon FC) provide security at the back. Defenders like Ocheche Amos Onyejefu (Stade de Reims, France) and Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United) bring international experience, while midfielders Daniel Daga (Molde FC, Norway) and Israel Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia) add steel and creativity. Up front, the Flying Eagles boast firepower in Achichi Oseer (Royal Antwerp, Belgium), Kparobo Arierhi (Lillestrom SK, Norway), and Sani Suleman (AS Trencin, Slovakia).

Norway’s squad features talent spread across Scandinavia and Europe.

Goalkeepers Magnus Brøndbo (FK Bodø/Glimt) and Sander Østraat (Hamarkameratene) will compete for the gloves, while defenders Håkon Røsten (Ranheim IL), Runar Norheim (FC Nordsjaelland), and Vetle Auklend (Viking FK) bring solidity.

The midfield is anchored by Travis Hernes (FC Groningen, Netherlands) and Kasper Sætherbø (Mjøndalen IF), while the attack boasts promising names like Benjamin Faraas (Fredrikstad FK) and Markus Haaland (SK Brann).
Venue Spotlight

The battle unfolds at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca, a stadium steeped in history. Built in 1930 and renovated in 2011, it now holds 16,070 spectators and is the largest in Chile’s Maule Region.

With its vibrant atmosphere, the ground promises to provide the perfect backdrop for this clash of styles.
Coaches Speak

Despite a mixed bag of results in pre-tournament friendlies, Nigeria’s coach Zubair remains upbeat:

“In the two matches we played here, the results were not the most important thing. What mattered was identifying our deficiencies and correcting them. Our attack is sharper now, and we’re exploiting spaces better.

With the little time left, we’ll continue to improve.”

Norway, though less experienced on this stage, are equally motivated. With a young squad hungry for recognition, coach Johansen is expected to set up his side with discipline and resilience, hoping to catch Nigeria off guard.
What’s at Stake?

For Nigeria, a win would underline their status as one of the favorites, while for Norway, three points would mark their arrival as a serious contender. With flair meeting resilience under the Chilean night sky, the opening whistle promises to usher in 90 minutes of drama, skill, and determination.