Nigeria Fall to Norway in U20 World Cup Opener After Early Penalty | OneFootball

Rasmus Holten strikes from the spot as the Flying Eagles chase an equalizer

Nigeria Fall to Norway in U20 World Cup Opener After Early Penalty

Nigeria's U20 World cup journey began on bitter note as they fell 1 - 0 to Norway.

In a tense Group F clash at the U20 World cup, Nigeria trail Norway 1 - 0 after first half marked by caution and costly errors.

An early defensive mistake left the Flying Eagles chasing the game from the 9th minute.

How did the goal happen?

Defender Daniel Bamyi conceded penalty after reckless challenge inside the box.

Following VAR review, the referee confirmed the foul and Norway captain Rasmus Holten calmly converted from the spot past goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.

Norway then tightened their defensive lines while controlling the tempo. Nigeria tried to break through with crosses and quick passes but wasted key opportunities including dangerous ball from the right that went unpunished after defensive slip.

Nigeria’s response

The Flying Eagles pushed back after the break. Striker Kparobo Arierhi one of the team’s brightest prospects, came closest when his fierce shot rattled the crossbar keeping Nigeria’s hopes alive.

The result leaves Nigeria under pressure in Group F with little margin for error in the matches ahead.