Fifa U20 World Cup: Five takeaways from Flying Eagles' controversial 1-0 loss to Norway

The Flying Eagles began their 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup campaign with a controversial  1-0 defeat to Norway on Tuesday night.

Rasmus Holten netted the decisive goal for the Europeans from the penalty spot in the ninth minute.

The result handed Norway their first three points of the tournament, while Nigeria remain without a point after the opening round of matches.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match.

Referee rejects Nigeria penalty appeal

Joe Dickerson turned down Nigeria's penalty appeal in the 86th minute.

Arierhi believed he had earned a spot-kick after his strike inside the box deflected off Tobias Moi's chest and then touched the defender's hand.

However, following a VAR review, the referee ruled against awarding a penalty, noting that Moi's hand was in a natural position.

Norway compact in defense

The European side showed great discipline and defensive composure, making it difficult for Nigeria to create clear chances.

Off the ball, the Norwegians worked tirelessly, maintaining a compact defensive shape that blocked passing lanes and limited the Flying Eagles' influence in advanced areas.

Despite enjoying the majority of possession, Nigeria struggled to break them down or fashion opportunities from open play due to this organized approach.

The approach forced Nigeria to rely on long-range attempts, none of which posed any real threat to the defense.

Nigeria still struggle to convert chances

Although Aliyu Zubairu's boys struggled to create clear openings, they managed to break through the disciplined defensive shape but lacked precision in front of goal.

On the few occasions the Flying Eagles got beyond the backline, they failed to convert, striking the woodwork in both halves.

Kparobo Arierhi came closest in the first half, only to see his effort cannon off the post.

Later, Tahir Maigana, after a brilliant team move, found space inside the box but could only hit the bottom corner of the frame.

The wastefulness in attack once again highlighted the recurring issue of a lack of cutting edge that has plagued the team since the AFCON tournament.

Scorching sun in the second half

The rising temperature in the second half made conditions uncomfortable for the players at some stages of the game.

The Norwegian goalkeeper even resorted to wearing a face cap early on to shield his eyes from the glaring summer sun.

Despite the heat, the Flying Eagles were still unable to find the back of the net, largely due to the Europeans' resilient defensive display.

Low turnout at the stadium

The Estadio Fiscal de Talca in Chile witnessed a low turnout, with several empty seats visible throughout the game.

Although both countries are known as football-loving nations, the sparse attendance may have been influenced by factors such as location, scheduling, or limited local interest.

Adeyemi Adewale

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