The Nigerian Flying Eagles secured their place in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Colombia in their final group game at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca. This crucial result sets up a highly anticipated rematch against Group D winners Argentina in the next round, a repeat of the quarter-final pairing from the last championship.

In the match against Colombia, goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt made vital saves in the 23rd and 26th minutes to keep the score pristine in the first half. Despite Nigeria’s offensive efforts, which saw Kparobo Arierhi, Tahir Maigana, and Sani Suleiman hit the woodwork three times, Colombia took the lead in the 51st minute when Kener Gonzalez swept the ball in following an assist from Neyser Villareal. Defender Odinaka Okoro also had a header denied by the goalkeeper in the 76th minute.

Undeterred, the two-time silver medalists intensified their pressure, launching onslaughts against the South Americans. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 84th minute when Tahir Maigana’s goal-bound effort brushed the arm of a Colombian defender inside the box. Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded. Captain Daniel Bameyi, who had previously scored a late penalty against Saudi Arabia, stepped up confidently and sent Colombian goalkeeper Jordan García the wrong way from 12 yards, securing the equalizer. Nigeria came close to earning a winner in the 89th minute, but Arierhi's shot was blocked.

Head coach Aliyu Zubairu later revealed a crucial tactical shift at halftime that proved decisive. Acknowledging Colombia's physicality and skill on the ball, Zubairu instructed his team to deny them passing opportunities, implement a high press, and close down midfield spaces in the second half. This adjustment, he stated, gave the Flying Eagles an edge, preventing Colombia from dictating play and ultimately prompting the late penalty. Zubairu expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete further in the tournament, praising their proactive and resilient performance.

Nigeria’s qualification as one of the best third-placed teams (alongside France, South Korea, and Spain) ensures their continuation in the tournament. They now prepare to face Argentina on Wednesday at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos in Santiago, a repeat of the quarter-final matchup from the last championship hosted by Argentina, which Nigeria won 2-0 in San Juan. Other confirmed Round of 16 fixtures include Norway against Paraguay and Colombia against another African side, South Africa. The Flying Eagles, along with South Africa and Morocco, continue to carry Africa's flag in their pursuit of glory in Chile.