Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are through to the round of 16 of the ongoing 2023 U-20 FIFA World Cup in Argentina following a 2-0 win over Italy in their Group D game on Wednesday night to make it two wins in two matches.

The Flying Eagles came from behind to win 2-1 against Dominican Republic in their opening group game on Sunday. However, the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) bronze medalists booked a knockout stage ticket with a dominating win over their Italian counterparts.

It was a close first-half at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas as both nations settled for a goalless draw. But Nigeria came into the second-half more rejuvenated and found a breakthrough in the 61st minute thanks to Salim Lawal’s header.

The scoreline remained the same until the dying minutes of the game even though both sides made attacking threats from both nations. In the fifth minute of the stoppage time, goalkeeper Chijioke Aniagboso from his box, located Jude Sunday, which the winger followed through into the opponents’ box and latched into the net with his left foot.

Sunday’s goal sealed the win for the Flying Eagles as Nigeria move to the top of Group D with six points. Nigeria will face Brazil in their last group stage match on Sunday and will be guaranteed to finish as the group leader if they get a draw for the game.