Nigeria, Norway progress to FIFA U20 World Cup knockout stage after thrilling Group F finale

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles and Norway have advanced to the knockout stage of the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025 after an intense conclusion to Group F.

Nigeria fought to a 1-1 draw against Colombia, while Norway secured a similar result against Saudi Arabia, confirming both nations’ progression from one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.

In the decisive Group F encounter on October 5 in Talca, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles displayed remarkable determination against Colombia. Despite early dominance, the team was unlucky as Kparobo Arierhi and Tahir Maigana both struck the crossbar in the first half. Their misfortune mirrored their earlier 1-0 defeat to Norway on September 29, where Arierhi also hit the bar. Colombia broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute with a fine strike from Gonzalez, but Nigeria kept pressing. After hitting the post again, a Colombian handball in the box awarded the Eagles a penalty, which captain Daniel Bameyi calmly converted to earn a valuable 1-1 draw and a place in the Round of 16.

Norway also confirmed their place after drawing 1-1 with Saudi Arabia on the same day. Following a goalless first half, Fulgustad put Norway ahead just two minutes after the restart, capitalizing on a defensive mistake. Saudi Arabia, still seeking their first win after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia on September 30, equalized in the 54th minute when Haji converted a penalty following a foul in Norway’s box. The result secured Norway’s advancement alongside Nigeria.

Earlier results in the group included Norway’s 1-0 win over Nigeria through a Rasmus Holten penalty on September 29, Nigeria’s 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia on October 2, and Colombia’s goalless draw with Norway. According to FIFA’s standings, Norway finished with five points, Nigeria with four, and Colombia also advanced, while Saudi Arabia exited the competition.

Nigeria’s qualification marks their 13th appearance in the U20 World Cup knockout stage, the highest by any African nation, while Norway continues their strong run following a quarterfinal finish in 2019.

With the Round of 16 kicking off on October 8 and Chile 2025 introducing Football Video Support (FSV) for enhanced referee precision, fans can anticipate more thrilling encounters ahead.