U-20 World Cup: Flying Eagles Edge Past Dominican Republic In Opening Fixture

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria edged past the Dominican Republic 2-1 in their opening match at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Mendoza on Sunday night.

Dominican Republic, playing in their first-ever game in a FIFA tournament, drew the first blood through captain Edison Azcona in the 23rd minute.

The centre referee awarded a penalty to the debutants after Azcona was brought down in the penalty area by centre-back Benjamin Frederick.

Azcona made no mistake from the spot as he sent goalkeeper Chijioke Aniagboso the wrong way.

Parity was however restored eight minutes later with Guillermo de Pena nodding into his own net to square the proceedings in the first 45 minutes.

The Eagles pushed for a second goal after the break and got rewarded for their efforts 20 minutes from time.

Samson Lawal scored the winner after profiting from a mistake in the Dominican Republic defence.

The Flying Eagles will next face Italy on Wednesday for their second match in Group D.