Nigeria’s Flying Eagles suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Norway in the 24th FIFA U20 World Cup finals opener on Monday, despite dictating play and creating numerous chances, platinumnewsng.com is reporting
The Europeans took the lead in the 9th minute from a contentious penalty, but Nigeria was twice denied what appeared to be clear penalty calls in the second half.
Kparobo Arierhi came close to equalising in the 47th minute with a left-footed strike that missed narrowly, while Tahir Maigana’s powerful effort struck the upright midway through the second half. Nasiru Salihu’s thunderous attempt in the 71st minute also flew agonisingly over the bar, before Maigana once again went close in the 83rd minute.
The two-time runners-up mounted relentless pressure, but Norway’s packed defence absorbed every attack to secure the win.
Nigeria will next face Saudi Arabia in a must-win second group match on Thursday.