HIGHLIGHTS
- Video highlights of all the seven matches played
- Golden Eaglets Player-By-Player Ratings Vs Mali
- The honour’s list established and overseen by FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG).
- Roll Call of Champions
- Match Stastics, line ups, reports and Post Match Comment of Coaches for all the seven matches.
- Nigeria's Record at the U-17 World Cup to date.
- How Golden Eaglets Won All Five U-17 World Cup Title
- Top Scorers in U-17 World Cup to date.
- Kanu, Ogu, Echiejile Hail Heroic Golden Eaglets
- And More
HIGHLIGHTS
Watch all the match highlights of the Golden Eaglet victory in FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015
GROUP STAGE
Highlights: Nigeria 0 - 2 USA - FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015Highlights: Chile 1 - 5 Nigeria - FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015
SECOND STAGE: ROUND OF 16
Highlights: Nigeria 0 - 6 Australia - FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015
QUARTER FINAL
Highlights: Brazil 0 - 3 Nigeria - FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015
SEMI-FINAL
Highlights: Mexico 2 - 4 Nigeria - FIFA U17 World Cup Chile 2015Nwakali passing on the armband
There was a touching moment after the FIFA U-17 World Cup final as the winning captain Kelechi Nwakali left the pitch. A screaming fan caught the eye of the Nigeria skipper from the stands directly next to the tunnel. Looking up to the youngster, the No10, fresh from claiming the adidas Golden Ball as the most outstanding player at Chile 2015 as well as lifting the trophy itself, waved. It was clear there was one thing the young Chilean wanted. Without hesitation Nwakali rolled the armband down his arm and threw it towards the fan. It was caught by another supporter and passed to him. The scream of delight from the youngster put a huge grin on all those who witnessed the act of kindness.
It was a small episode on a heady night for the humble captain, and displayed a softer side to the character of the ASJ Academy midfielder who had otherwise been a brutal enforcer and instigator of attacks throughout the tournament. He shone so brightly with his performances, as well as his three goals and three assists that he ended up with the award for best player of the tournament.
“I thank God for the opportunity to win this award,” Nwakali said exclusively to FIFA.com after the final. “It means so much.”
The midfielder was quick to place the effort of his team-mates at the forefront of the conversation, making sure to praise their hard work and diligence throughout their time in Chile.
“Right from the game against the USA, when we arrived in Chile, our aim was to defend the trophy,” Nwakali said. “We believed the only way we could do this was hard work. We approached each game with hard work and seriousness. Any team that came to Chile worked for it.”
To play in a World Cup final and win the trophy is amazing. Not just winning it, but defending it.Kelechi Nwakali, adidas Golden Ball winner and U-17 World Cup-winning captain.
That ethos saw Nigeria motor to the final, topping their group and flying past Australia and Brazil in the Round of 16 and quarter-final respectively before a titanic clash against Mexico.
“They are a strong side,” Nwakali said of El Tri. “We believed that when it came to U-17 level, they have been there and done it already. Even though we came from behind, we knew we had to work hard, that is our philosophy.”
Those continuing references to diligence and industry were selected carefully by Nwakali, aware as the mouthpiece of the team that he needed to set an example. Leading by example on the pitch in that rematch of the 2013 U-17 World Cup finale with a stunning goal from a free-kick, he helped set up an all-African final, for only the second time in the tournament’s history. That armband was tight on Nwakali’s arm as he led his side out in Vina Del Mar.
“Playing in the final is the dream of every young player,” the beaming No10 said. “To play in a World Cup final and win the trophy is amazing. Not just winning it, but defending it.”
FIFA.COM
Nigeria won the FIFA U17 World Cup title in Chile early Monday morning.
The victory ensured the Eaglets retained the title they won in 2013 and it was the 5th U17 World Cup title for Nigeria. The feat was achieved against a resolute Mali side who were playing for the first time in the final of the cadet World Cup. AKPAN UDOH:
The keeper had an anxious start to the game. He had to make a quick dash to defend a goal-bound effort at the edge of the box when his defenders deserted him. Luckily the ball was deflected for corner. Udoh made outstanding saves throughout the game and had good distribution rate. 8/10.
JOHN LAZARUS:
The right back was at his brilliant best again, defending at the back and supporting the attacking moves made by the team. Sometimes in the game though, his going forward was a source of concern. But overall he had a good game. 7/10.
UDOCHUKWU ANUMUDU:
The left back played superbly and displayed intelligence in timing his tackles, when to go forward and when to stay put at the rear. His thunderous shots was also part of his game on the night. 7/10.
EJIKE IKWU:
The left-footed central defender who plays on the left side at the back, made a world class defensive tackle in the first half and also made some timely clearances. 7/10.
LUKMAN ZAKARI:
The central defender may not be the most fashionable defender, but he does his job diligently. The defender took no prisoners and was willing to help out the often overlapping John Lazarus. 6/10.
DAVID ENOGELA:
The defensive midfielder received a yellow card from English Premier League referee Michael Oliver after committing his third foul in the final. Enogela had a good tournament but the final was apparently not his best game in seven games. 6/10.
KELECHI NWAKALI:
The captain of the team who was adjudged the Most Valueable Player of the tournament, was inspirational as usual. The deep-lying playmaker was seen at both ends of the field with his attacking and defensive duties. 8/10.
OSINACHI EBERE:
Ebere was at the end of some counter-attacking moves by the Golden Eaglets. He was also tracking back to help defend. He however lost the penalty kick and the ensuing rebound. 7/10.
FUNSHO BAMBOYE:
Recalled to the starting line-up after missing the semi-final through suspension, the pacey forward scored Nigeria's second goal of the night after receiving a pass from Samuel Chukwueze before rifling to the left top corner.
His pace and strength were threats to the equally powerful Malians. 7/10.
SAMUEL CHUKWUEZE:
The skilful forward assisted Nigeria's second goal of the night converted by Bamgboye. Chukwueze's incisive passes were on display in the final though he did give away a couple of them and had to be hurled off in the second half of the game. 7/10.
VICTOR OSIMHEN:
Top scorer of the World Cup with 10 goals, Victor Osimhen who was also declared the second most valueable player of the World Cup scored the Eaglets' first goal of the night when he belted his left footed shot beyond Samuel Diarra in goal for Mali. 8/10.
SUBS:
Chinedu Madueke:
Madueke came off the bench to contribute his quota to the team's win on Sunday night/ Monday morning.The attacking midfield player assisted Nigeria's first scored by Victor Osimhen at the edge of the Malian box after making a run from the right side of attack. 6.5/10.
Sunday Alimi:
Sunday Alimi also came off the bench in the second half and helped defend in numbers as the Malians laboured all night for a comeback. 6/10.
Orji Okonkwo:
The forward came off the bench but unlike his wonderful performance in the semi-finals when he scored an unstoppable thunderbolt, he had less impact to make in the final because his team-mates were up to their races. The resourceful player was made to defend too as the Eaglets defended their lead. 6/10
COMPLETE SPORTS
The honour’s list established and overseen by FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG).
The captain of the Golden Eaglets was included in Nigeria’s provisional squad ahead of the 2013 edition, but was not named in the final party that went on to win the title. Here, however, the playmaker was the first to lift the trophy aloft. Coach Emmanuel Amuneke right-hand man out on the pitch, he shouldered responsibility and kept a cool head in difficult moments. He scored three goals, including two penalties, and provided a further three assists, a haul that was also brought him the adidas Bronze Boot.
Adidas Silver Ball: Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Even before the tournament kicked off in Chile Osimhen was touted as a favourite to win the adidas Golden Ball, having scored 39 goals in 71 outings for his country at that point, and finished as top scorer at the U-17 African Championship in March. The striker, who names Côte d’Ivoire forward Didier Drogba as his role model, more than lived up to expectations in Chile after finding the net in all seven games at the competition. Osimhen put his side 1-0 up on four occasions and his effort in the final – his tenth goal overall – set a new tournament record, beating the previous best-mark set by Côte d’Ivoire’s Souleymane Coulibaly in 2011 and France’s Florent Sinama Pongolle in 2001. Osimhen duly finished as top scorer in South America, and would doubtless not begrudge his team captain, of all players, pipping him to what would have been a second golden award.
Adidas Bronze Ball: Aly Malle (Mali)
Alongside Boubacar Traore, Sekou Koita and Sidiki Maiga, Malle formed part of an impressive attacking line-up that put opponents under pressure right from the off. Operating as a nominal striker, the No9 often dropped deep to pick up the ball and brought his team-mates into the game on countless occasions.
Adidas Golden Boot: Victor Osimhen (Nigeria/10 goals, 2 assists)
Adidas Silver Boot: Johannes Eggestein (Germany/4 goals, 0 assists)
Eggestein’s best performances for Germany came in the group stage, where he found the target four times in three matches to go joint-top of the scorers’ chart alongside Osimhen after the first phase of the tournament. Although the striker, who plays for Bundesliga club Werder Bremen, was unable to add to his tally after Germany were eliminated by Croatia in the Round of 16, he still did enough to win the adidas Silver Boot. “My strengths are my ability to anticipate a pass and my versatility,” Eggestein said in an interview with FIFA.com. His self-analysis is backed up by the statistics: he scored twice with his left foot, once with his right and once with his head.
Adidas Bronze Boot: Kelechi Nwakali (Nigeria/3 goals, 3 assists)
Adidas Golden Glove: Samuel Diarra (Mali)For the fourth time in tournament history, the best goalkeeper of the finals was presented with an award. Following Benjamin Siegrist (Switzerland, 2009), Jonathan Cubero (Uruguay, 2011) and Dele Alampasu (Nigeria, 2013), this time the winner was Samuel Diarra, who reached the final with African champions Mali and routinely frustrated opposition strikers with some spectacular saves. The custodian dazzled in South America with his incredible reflexes and command of his penalty area, while he conceded fewer goals than any other goalkeeper at these finals, letting in just four in seven games.
FIFA Fair Play Award: Ecuador
In 1995 Ecuador posted their best achievement at an U-17 World Cup by reaching the quarter-finals on home soil. Now, 20 years on, the latest crop of players equalled that feat in Chile, and did so while winning over the hearts of the fans. In their five games at the tournament, the South Americans only committed 69 fouls, collected just four yellow cards and had one sending off for a second bookable offence, making coach Jose Rodriguez’s charges worthy winners of the FIFA Fair Play Award. Alongside a trophy, medals and a certificate, the Ecuadorian FA will also receive prize money of $10,000 USD, which can only used for football equipment for youth teams.Victor OSIMHEN 7 630 10 2 2
Johannes EGGESTEIN 4 353 4 0 0
Samuel CHUKWUEZE 7 535 3 3 0
Kelechi NWAKALI 7 630 3 3 2
Sidiki MAIGA 7 507 3 1 0
Fedor CHALOV 4 333 3 0 0
Francisco VENEGAS 6 540 3 0 1
Dante RIGO 7 593 3 0 0
Nicolas JANVIER 3 136 2 3 0
Claudio ZAMUDIO 6 342 2 2 0
TOP SAVES
PLAYERS MATCHES PLAYED MINUTES PLAYED SAVES SAVE RATEAkpan UDOH 7 630 24 82.8
PLAYERS MATCHES PLAYED MINUTES PLAYED YELLOW CARDS SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD RED CARDS
Funsho BAMGBOYE 5 369 2 0 1
Roll Call of
Champions
1. Akpan UDOH Goalkeeper 16 years old
2. John LAZARUS Defender 17 years old
3. Tobechukwu IBE Defender 17 years old
4. David ENOGELA Midfielder 17 years old
5 Lukman ZAKARI Defender 16 years old
6 Kingsley MICHAEL Midfielder 16 years old
7 Funsho BAMGBOYE Forward 16 years old
8 Samuel CHUKWUEZE Midfielder 16 years old
9 Victor OSIMHEN Forward 16 years old
10 Kelechi NWAKALI Midfielder 17 years old
11Chinedu MADUEKE Midfielder 17 years old
12 Chukwudi AGOR Midfielder 16 years old
13 Joel OSIKEL Midfielder 17 years old
14 Ejike IKWU Defender 16 years old
15 Udochukwu ANUMUDU Forward 17 years old
16 Amos BENJAMIN Goalkeeper 16 years old
17 Osinachi EBERE Forward 17 years old
18 Edidiong ESSIEN Midfielder 15 years old
19 Sunday ALIMI Forward 16 years old
20 Orji OKWONKWO Forward 17 years old
21Chisom CHIAHA Goalkeeper 17 years old
AMUNEKE Emmanuel (NGA) Coach
44 years old
PLAYERS MP MINP GS ASS Y 2YC R
UDOH 7 630 0 0 0 0 0
LAZARUS 7 630 0 2 0 0 0
ZAKARI 7 630 0 0 0 0 0
OSIMHEN 7 630 10 2 1 0 0
NWAKALI 7 630 3 3 0 0 0
IKWU 7 630 0 0 1 0 0
ENOGELA 7 611 0 1 2 0 0
ANUMUDU 7 540 1 0 2 0 0
CHUKWUEZE 7 535 3 3 0 0 0
BAMBGOYE 5 369 1 0 2 0 1
AGOR 4 245 1 1 0 0 0
MICHAEL 5 176 1 0 1 0 0
OKONKWO 5 125 1 1 0 0 0
MADUEKE 4 98 0 1 0 0 0
ESSIEN 3 66 1 0 0 0 0
OSIKEL 2 61 0 0 1 0 0
ALIMI 2 5 0 0 0 0 0
IBE 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
BENJAMIN 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
CHIAHA 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
UNIQUE NUMBERS AND FACTS ABOUT NIGERIA'S PARTICIPATION IN U-17 WORLD CUP.
1 - Nigeria only loss to Croatia in Chile 2015.
1- Nigeria's number of Red card in the Competition.
1- Nigeria's win in Chile 2015 is her first win outside of Asia.
3 - The number of times Nigeria has been runners up.
3 - The Number of times Nigerians have emerged as tournament's leading Scorers. Wilson Oruma (6 goals - Japan 93), Macauley Chrisantus ( 7 goals - Korea Republic 2007) and Victor Osimhen (10 goals - Chile 2015)
4- The number of times Nigeria won the U-17 World Cup in Asia.
4- The number of times Nigeria won the U-17 World Cup in Asia.
5 - The number of times Nigeria has won the U-17 World Cup.
5 - The total number of goals Nigeria conceded in Chile 2015.6 - Nigeria's total loss in the Competition's history.
7 - The total number of matches the Golden Eaglets played in Chile 2015.
8 - Nigeria has won all matches at the semi finals of the competition and lost none.
9 - Victor Osimhen's Jersey Number when he scored his 9th goal.
10 - The number of draws Nigeria has had in all Competition to date.
10 - The least number of goals Nigeria scored in her five trophy victories in the Competition's all time history (China 85)
10 - The Number of goals scored by Victor Osimhen to become the Tournament's all time leading Scorer.
23- The Total number of Goals scored by the Eaglet in the Competition.
10 - The number of draws Nigeria has had in all Competition to date.
10 - The least number of goals Nigeria scored in her five trophy victories in the Competition's all time history (China 85)
10 - The Number of goals scored by Victor Osimhen to become the Tournament's all time leading Scorer.
23- The Total number of Goals scored by the Eaglet in the Competition.
26 - The highest number of goals Nigeria scored in a single tournament - UAE 2013
43 - The total Number of goals Nigeria has conceded in the Competition's history.
47 - The Number of matches Nigeria has won in the Competition to date.
63 - The Number of games Nigeria has played in the Competition to date.
149 - The Total Number of Goals Nigeria has scored in the Competition's history.
NIGERIA 2 VS 0 USA
Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez PrádanosSantiago De Chile (CHI)43 - The total Number of goals Nigeria has conceded in the Competition's history.
47 - The Number of matches Nigeria has won in the Competition to date.
63 - The Number of games Nigeria has played in the Competition to date.
149 - The Total Number of Goals Nigeria has scored in the Competition's history.
NIGERIA 2 VS 0 USA
AGOR 50' OSIMHEN 61'
NIGERIA USA
BALL POSSESSION
ATTEMPTS
19 ATTEMPTS 5
6 ON-TARGET 0
7 OFF-TARGET 5
6 BLOCKED 0
STATISTICS
NIGERIA USA
BALL POSSESSION
58 % 42
ATTEMPTS
19 ATTEMPTS 5
6 ON-TARGET 0
7 OFF-TARGET 5
6 BLOCKED 0
DISCIPLINARY
13 FOULS COMMITTED 12
1 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 1
13 FOULS COMMITTED 12
1 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 1
ATTACKING
8 CORNERS 7
3 OFFSIDES 0
12 FREE KICKS 16
0 SAVES 4
NIGERIA
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
A scoreless opening 45 minutes saw plenty of chances go begging for both sides. USA’s Haji Wright came the closest to opening the scoring 13 minutes in after getting on the end of Christian Pulisic’s cross but the No7 could not keep his effort from going over the crossbar.
Pulisic in particular tormented the Nigerian backline with his pace and skill attacking down the left, but the Golden Eaglets held on and five minutes after the break took the lead. The Americans were unable to clear during a scramble in their area and Chukwudi Agor capitalised on the Stars and Stripes’ mistake and smashed the ball into the net, leaving William Pulisic no chance.
"Considering it was the first match, I think it was a good game. At the beginning it was pretty even, everything very tactical, neither of us wanted to make a mistake. At half time I told my players to believe in themselves, and it worked, because we were more precise. Besides the three points, which are very important, I also liked that we kept our heads even when we could not get things going," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
MATCH VIDEO
Estadio SausalitoVina Del Mar (CHI)
20 Oct 2015 - 20:00 Local time
First stage - Group A
ALLENDE 81'
CHUKWUEZE 1', 61', NWAKALI17' PEN OSIMHEN 66' PEN, 86'
CHILE NGR
BALL POSSESSION
ATTEMPTS
18 ATTEMPTS 25
8 ON-TARGET 10
7 OFF-TARGET 8
3 BLOCKED 7
NIGERIA
8 CORNERS 7
3 OFFSIDES 0
12 FREE KICKS 16
0 SAVES 4
1UDOH(GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA, 5 ZAKARI, 7 BAMGBOYE 81', 9 OSIMHEN 90'+3, 10 NWAKALI (C), 12 AGOR 61', 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU, 17 EBERE
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK), 21 CHIAHA (GK), 3 IBE, 6 MICHAEL 61', 8 CHUKWUEZE 81', 11 MADUEKE, 13 OSIKEL, 18 ESSIEN, 19 ALIMI, 20 OKONKWO 90'+3
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
Golden Eaglets sink USA to start title defence
Nigeria, the reigning U-17 World Champions, have begun their title defence on the right foot after taking down USA 2-0 in the Golden Eaglets’ opening match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015.
A scoreless opening 45 minutes saw plenty of chances go begging for both sides. USA’s Haji Wright came the closest to opening the scoring 13 minutes in after getting on the end of Christian Pulisic’s cross but the No7 could not keep his effort from going over the crossbar.
Pulisic in particular tormented the Nigerian backline with his pace and skill attacking down the left, but the Golden Eaglets held on and five minutes after the break took the lead. The Americans were unable to clear during a scramble in their area and Chukwudi Agor capitalised on the Stars and Stripes’ mistake and smashed the ball into the net, leaving William Pulisic no chance.
The opening goal did not diminish the Americans’ attacking spirit, but Richie Williams’ side could not create any clear-cut chances to find an equaliser. And with half an hour remaining, Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead after cleverly beating two defenders and calmly finishing past Pulisic.
To make matters worse for USA, Auston Trusty was shown a straight red card three minutes from time, which will require coach Williams to make some changes in his backline ahead of the Americans’ next match against Croatia on Tuesday. With the man advantage, the Golden Eaglets confidently controlled the tempo of the game until the final whistle to put them on top of Group A, at least temporarily as Croatia take on tournament hosts Chile, also in Santiago, later on Saturday evening in the group’s other match-up.
"Considering it was the first match, I think it was a good game. At the beginning it was pretty even, everything very tactical, neither of us wanted to make a mistake. At half time I told my players to believe in themselves, and it worked, because we were more precise. Besides the three points, which are very important, I also liked that we kept our heads even when we could not get things going," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
"We are obviously disappointed because of the
outcome. We played a good first half, we were balanced, solid and we even
created some chance that we were not able to convert. Nigeria scored two quick
goals, but thank to unfortunate errors on our side. We were hoping to be more
effective, but we lost against a good Nigerian team," Richie Willams, USA
coach.
MATCH VIDEO
CHILE 1 VS 5 NIGERIA
Estadio SausalitoVina Del Mar (CHI)
20 Oct 2015 - 20:00 Local time
First stage - Group A
ALLENDE 81'
CHUKWUEZE 1', 61', NWAKALI17' PEN OSIMHEN 66' PEN, 86'
STATISTICS
CHILE NGR
BALL POSSESSION
54 % 46
ATTEMPTS
18 ATTEMPTS 25
8 ON-TARGET 10
7 OFF-TARGET 8
3 BLOCKED 7
DISCIPLINARY
11 FOULS COMMITTED 15
3 YELLOW CARDS 2
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 1
11 FOULS COMMITTED 15
3 YELLOW CARDS 2
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 1
ATTACKING
12 CORNERS 4
1 OFFSIDES 1
16 FREE KICKS 12
5 SAVES 7
12 CORNERS 4
1 OFFSIDES 1
16 FREE KICKS 12
5 SAVES 7
1 UDOH (GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA, 5 ZAKARI, 8 CHUKWUEZE, 9 OSIMHEN, 10 NWAKALI (C), 12 AGOR 72', 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU, 7 EBERE 54'
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK) 21 CHIAHA (GK) 3 IBE 6 MICHAEL 72', 7 BAMGBOYE 54', 11 MADUEKE, 13 OSIKEL, 18 ESSIEN, 19 ALIMI, 20 OKONKWO
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
Nigeria ease past hosts and into last 16
Holders Nigeria continued their impressive start to their FIFA U-17 World Cup title defence by completing a comprehensive 5-1 victory over hosts Chile and progressing to the knockout stages in the process. A goal within 30 seconds by star man Samuel Chukwueze set the tone for a straightforward win, with the diminutive No8 grabbing a second in the second half after he had earlier been fouled for Kelechi Nwakali's to score from the spot, and before he was felled for Victor Osimhen's successful spot kick conversion.
Chile grabbed a consolation, before Funsho Bamgboye saw his marching orders, with Osimhen's late header adding some gloss to the win, despite Nwakali missing his second penalty of the match after Chukwueze had been fouled in the penalty area for a third time.
The African side were remarkably quick out of the blocks, opening the scoring after 22 seconds. Victor Osimhen, fresh from his goal in the opening game against USA, sprinted down the Nigerian left and slid the ball across the Chilean penalty area. The onrushing midfielder slammed home with ease.
He then played a big part in the second Nigeria goal, sprinting onto a long upfield clearance and tapping the ball past the sliding Juan Jose Soriano in the penalty area. The Chilean defender’s challenge brought down the Nigeria No8 and Nwakali doubled his side's lead.
Chukwueze then grabbed his second of the game thanks to sheer determination on the hour mark. He worked his way into the Chilean penalty area, performed a couple of stepovers and, after seeing an initial shot blocked, slammed a left-footed strike past Lopez.
Chile's defence will be glad to see the back of the Nigerian No8, as he burst into the Chilean penalty area once more moments later and was felled again, this time by substitute Brian Leiva. For the second spot kick, it was Osimhen who stepped up, and he matched Nwakali's first effort by firing home.
Substitute Funsho Bamgboye later hit the post before Chile's consolation came courtesy of Marcelo Allende, who slammed past Akpan Udoh from Luciano Diaz's cross.
Despite Bamgboye's late dismissal, for a rash challenge, Nigeria rallied and Osimhen grabbed his third of the tournament in two games. Nwakali then missed his chance to double his own tally for the game from the penalty spot, after Chukwueze had been fouled for a third time.
It did not matter though, as Nigeria join Korea Republic in the last 16, with Chile set to face USA in a pivotal final clash back at the Estadio Sausalito on Friday.
"I told the kids: Nigeria respected us more than the result shows. They took measures to avoid us playing quickly, they knew to wait for us and scored after patient plays, they did not keep us in our goal for the whole game. It is true there were physical differences, especially when it came to speed, but it is also true we were not able to finish off the situations we created. Against a good team, they don't forgive you," Miguel Ponce, Chile coach.
"It is true we were effective up front, but we also knew how to block their passing game, forcing them to play uncomfortably in the midfield. My players understood the transition game, that is when to attack, when to defend. We also prepared them mentally, it is not easy to play against the host. Chile has a god team, but today they lost against the best team. I believe they can qualify for the next round," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
MATCH VIDEO
CROATIA 2 vs 1 NIGERIA
23 Oct 2015 - 20:00 Local time
First stage - Group A
BREKALO 50', MAJIĆ 54'
OSIMHEN 20'
STATISTICS
CROATIA NIGERIA
BALL POSSESSION
BALL POSSESSION
59 41
23 ATTEMPTS 8
6 ON-TARGET 3
8 OFF-TARGET 3
9 BLOCKED 2
DISCIPLINARY
13 FOULS COMMITTED 12
0 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
ATTACKING
13 CORNERS 5
1 OFFSIDES 4
16 FREE KICKS 14
2 SAVES 4
1 UDOH (GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA, 5 ZAKARI 8 CHUKWUEZE 9 OSIMHEN 10 NWAKALI (C), 12 AGOR 76', 13 OSIKEL 60', 14 IKWU, 17 EBERE 53'
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK) 21 CHIAHA (GK) 3 IBE, 6 MICHAEL 76', 7 BAMGBOYE, 11 MADUEKE 53', 15 ANUMUDU, 18 ESSIEN 60', 19 ALIMI, 20 OKONKWO
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
Croatia came from behind to defeat Group A winners Nigeria 2-1 and advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015.
Croatia, knowing a win would be enough for them to advance to the knockout stages, started the match in Coquimbo with great determination and created a number of chances early in the match. Croatia captain Nikola Moro had a shot from around the penalty area deflect strongly off Nigeria's brave defenders.
Four minutes later, Nigeria had their first significant chance of the match when Victor Osimhen, after an impressive counter attack, slotted a shot past Croatia goalkeeper Adrian Semper only for it to hit the base of the goal post.
Osimhen would not have to wait long to see his fortunes change when, after another swift counter attack, he calmly danced around Semper to score and become the tournament's outright top scorer, tallying his fourth goal at Chile 2015 so far.
Croatia continued to have the majority of possession for the remainder of the half. In the 39th minute Moro had a strong free-kick saved superbly by Nigeria keeper Akpan Udoh. Croatia would have one more significant chance before the interval but Borna Sosa's shot was deflected for a corner after Ejike Ikwu's intervention. When the referee blew the whistle for half-time, Croatia had 18 attempts to Nigeria's three, but it was the Africans who held the important advantage.
Croatia returned from the break anxious to finally convert a chance and they did so just five minutes into the second half. Josip Brekalo scored the equaliser after Moro wriggled his way along the Nigerian defense's goal-line and found his team-mate on the back post.
Dario Basic's Croatia then used their momentum to take the lead four minutes later when they capitalised on an error from Nigeria's backline. Karlo Majic cooly curled in a right-footed shot to score his second of the tournament and, more importantly, give his team the lead.
There were chances for both sides towards the end and Nigeria threatened to score an equaliser in the final minutes. The stand-out moment was Croatia defender Branimir Kalaica's last-ditch block on Samuel Chukwueze to keep his side 2-1 ahead.
Croatia held on to their lead in the end to become the first Croatian team ever to reach the Round of 16 in the tournament and will now face the runners-up in Group C on Thursday 29 October, while Group A winners Nigeria will wait to see which third-placed team from Groups C, D or E they will come up against in the Round of 16 on Wednesday 28 October.
"My players wanted to win, but we were not the best tonight. The Croats have asked us many problems. They prevented us from playing our game and deserved to win. My players are very talented, but still have room for improvement collectively," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
Estadio Francisco Sanchez RumorosoCoquimbo (CHI)
OSIMHEN 22', 73', 79', NWAKALI 25' PEN, ESSIEN 86, CHUKWUEZE 88', CHUKWUEZE 88'
STATISTICS
NIGERIA AUSTRALIA
BALL POSSESSION
51 % 49
ATTEMPTS 18 ATTEMPTS 8 10 ON-TARGET 1 7 OFF-TARGET 6 1 BLOCKED 1
DISCIPLINARY
10 FOULS COMMITTED 8 3 YELLOW CARDS 1 0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0 0 RED CARDS 0
ATTACKING
5 CORNERS 4 6 OFFSIDES 1 9 FREE KICKS 16 1 SAVES 4 
NIGERIA
1UDOH (GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA 71', 5 ZAKARI, 6 MICHAEL 54', 7 BAMGBOYE 78', 8 CHUKWUEZE, 9 OSIMHEN, 10 NWAKALI (C), 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK), 21 CHIAHA (GK), 3 IBE, 11 MADUEKE , 12 AGOR 54', 13 OSIKEL, 17 EBERE, 18 ESSIEN 71', 19 ALIMI, 20 OKONKWO 78'
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
| ||||||
Osimhen leads imperious champs past Aussies
Reigning FIFA U-17 World Cup champions Nigeria advanced to a quarter-final meeting against Brazil on the back of a hat-trick from the impressive Victor Osimhen, ending Australia’s run with a one-sided 6-0 victory in Vina Del Mar.
The tale of the first half was compacted into a three-minute period as Nigeria scored twice sandwiched either side of a gilt-edged opening for Australia.
It was 2-0 at the interval, and the game was still a contest until the final 17 minutes before Nigeria ran riot against an Australian side looking flat after surviving the ‘group of death’.
The Aussies started in pro-active fashion, but it was Funsho Ibrahim Bamgboye who hit the post with a rasping shot from the edge of the penalty area as Nigeria’s first effort narrowly failed to break the deadlock.
That moment came on 22 minutes as Osimhen showed just why he is the tournament’s leading goalscorer by bursting forward with pace and power on the left, before turning his defender and sliding the ball impressively inside the far post.
The tale of the first half was compacted into a three-minute period as Nigeria scored twice sandwiched either side of a gilt-edged opening for Australia.
It was 2-0 at the interval, and the game was still a contest until the final 17 minutes before Nigeria ran riot against an Australian side looking flat after surviving the ‘group of death’.
The Aussies started in pro-active fashion, but it was Funsho Ibrahim Bamgboye who hit the post with a rasping shot from the edge of the penalty area as Nigeria’s first effort narrowly failed to break the deadlock.
That moment came on 22 minutes as Osimhen showed just why he is the tournament’s leading goalscorer by bursting forward with pace and power on the left, before turning his defender and sliding the ball impressively inside the far post.
Australia could have drawn level immediately with Cameron Joice seeing his shot saved, while Lucas Derrick pushed the follow-up wide as a golden opportunity was spurned.
Almost immediately Nigeria were two in front as Funsho Bambgboye went to ground in the penalty area, and Kelechi Nwakali coolly slotted home the resultant penalty.
The two goals seemed to inspire the Nigerians who took a greater hold as the half wore on creating several half-openings around the Aussie goal.
Nigeria continued their powerful performance after the break, and although Australia dominated possession for periods, it was the Africans who ended the contest with a third.
Osimhen scored twice in the space of six minutes, the second with another laser-perfect drive into the top corner.
The deflated Aussies conceded to more goals in the dying minutes as firstly substitute Edidiong Michael Essien, and then Samuel Chukwueze, inflicted further pain as Nigeria stormed into the last-eight in confident fashion.
"We played a big part in this result. In the previous matches we managed to put a high pressure on our rivals, that was key today. We had the possession, but did not do anything with it. Our lines began to separate between each other and with spaces, they are lethal. I hope these kids can take the good things out of these three weeks and improve from there. I know that myself, as a coach, took positive things in spite of today's game," Tony Vidmar, Australia coach.
"It was a very interesting match. We knew that Australia was a good team because they qualified from a very difficult group, but my players were able to recuperate themselves from the loss against Croatia and regained their level. Victor (Osimhen) had a great game, although the philosophy of this team is to play collectively. We are candidates to win the title, but so are Brazil. We will work to put up a good fight," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
BRAZIL 0 vs 3 NIGERIA
Estadio SausalitoVina Del Mar (CHI)
01 Nov 2015 - 16:00 Local time
Quarter-finals
OSIMHEN 29', MICHAEL 30', ANUMUDU 34'
STATISTICS
BRAZIL NIGERIA
BALL POSSESSION
51 % 49
ATTEMPTS
21 ATTEMPTS 19
5 ON-TARGET 8
11 OFF-TARGET 8
5 BLOCKED 3
DISCIPLINARY
11 FOULS COMMITTED 14
2 YELLOW CARDS 2
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
11 FOULS COMMITTED 14
2 YELLOW CARDS 2
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
ATTACKING
9 CORNERS 5
0 OFFSIDES 4
18 FREE KICKS 11
5 SAVES 5
9 CORNERS 5
0 OFFSIDES 4
18 FREE KICKS 11
5 SAVES 5
NIGERIA
1. UDOH (GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA, 5 ZAKARI, 6 MICHAEL 61', 7 BAMGBOYE 90', 8 CHUKWUEZE, 9 OSIMHEN, 10 NWAKALI (C), 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK), 21 CHIAHA (GK), 3 IBE, 11 MADUEKE 90', 12 AGOR, 13 OSIKEL, 17 EBERE, 18 ESSIEN 61' 78', 19 ALIMI, 20 OKONKWO 78'
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
Nigeria the title holder got the upper hand over Brazil despite been on the receiving end of Brazil's relentless attack in the opening stages with Goalkeeper Akpan who came to the rescue and profligate finishes in the Nigerian goal area by the Brazilian forwards. They were effectively punished for the missed opportunities when the Competitions leading Scorer, Victor Osimhen, who has scored in every match the Golden Eaglets has played, registered his 8th goal through a fine header which was deflected into the net via an in-swinging cross from the impressive John Lazarus in the 29th minute.
A minute later Nigeria doubled the lead off a set up by Victor Osimhen which fell kindly to Kingsley Michael who stabbed the ball against the ground resulting in a bounce which arched beyond the reach of the Seleção goalie Juliano, straight into the net.
In the 34minute, Anumudu's low shot beat Juliano again for the third goal of the match.
The Second half was a ding dong affair as none of the two teams could convert the chances that came their way, with Evander going closest to scoring and Funsho Bamgboye also losing the chance that came his way and marked his day, collecting a needless booking that effectively ruled him out of the Semi-finals, cheating to score with his hand. Osimhen also came close to registering his ninth of the Competition when he failed to convert a one on one chance with the Brazilian goalie and was a constant thorn in the flesh of The Brazilian defence. Brazil lacked the cutting edge to break through the Nigerian defence line as the game wound down to a close. Nigeria will head to Concepcion for Thursday's semi-final against the winner of today's quarter-final match between Ecuador and Mexico.
In another match, Africa's other representative; Mali also booked a place into the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory over Croatia. Interestingly, Mali’s player Sekou Koita wearing jersey number 20 scored the solitary goal that took Mali, the African Champion into the semi-finals in 20th minute. Mali will now face the winner between Belgium and Costa Rica for a place in the final of the competition.
In today's Fixtures, Ecuador will battle it out with Mexico and Belgium will slug it out with Costa Rica for the last two places for the semi-finals.
CNF
"We knew it was important for us to make the most of our opportunities, especially if we dominated the game at some point, but we didn't. Their goals were scored in only five minutes because of specific chances, not because we were not balanced. We would like to have put Nigeria behind on the scoreboard, but we failed to score. For these kids, everything that has happened here is part of their learning process," Carlos Amadeu, Brazil coach.
Is not like we scored three goals and that was it. Before that our side had 15 very good minutes, when they moved the ball around as we knew they could. You have to give credit to my kids, who were tranquil and kept their cool to deal with the Brazil pressure and then scored at the right time. For them, to beat Brazil is a big confidence boost. We still have a long way to the title, though," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
MEXICO 2 vs 4 NIGERIA
stadio Municipal Ester RoaConcepcion (CHI)
05 Nov 2015 - 20:00 Local time
Semi-finals
K. MAGAÑA 7', D. CORTES 59'
NWAKALI 35', OKONKWO 43', EBERE 67', OSIMHEN 83' PEN
STATISTICS
MEXICO NIGERIA
BALL POSSESSION
ATTEMPTS
13 ATTEMPTS 30
3 ON-TARGET 12
6 OFF-TARGET 13
4 BLOCKED 5
NIGERIA
1 UDOH (GK), 2 LAZARUS, 4 ENOGELA, 5 ZAKARI, 8 CHUKWUEZE 86', 9 OSIMHEN, 10 NWAKALI (C), 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU, 17 EBERE 75', 20 OKONKWO 90'MEXICO NIGERIA
BALL POSSESSION
52 % 48
ATTEMPTS
13 ATTEMPTS 30
3 ON-TARGET 12
6 OFF-TARGET 13
4 BLOCKED 5
DISCIPLINARY
8 FOULS COMMITTED 8
0 YELLOW CARDS 0
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
8 FOULS COMMITTED 8
0 YELLOW CARDS 0
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
ATTACKING
6 CORNERS 8
1 OFFSIDES 2
10 FREE KICKS 9
8 SAVES 2
6 CORNERS 8
1 OFFSIDES 2
10 FREE KICKS 9
8 SAVES 2
NIGERIA
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK), 21 CHIAHA (GK), 3 IBE, 6 MICHAEL , BAMGBOYE 11, MADUEKE 75', 12 AGOR, 13 OSIKEL 90', 18 ESSIEN, 19 ALIMI 86'
Coach
Emmanuel AMUNEKE (NGA)
Nigeria defeats hard fighting Mexico 4-2.
Do not let the score line fool you; it was a tightly contested affair at the Estadio Municipal Ester Roa. Mexico took the game to the free scoring Nigeria’s golden Eaglets in the early period of the match creating several scoring chances.
The relentless pressure paid off in the 7th minute, when an in-swinging cross found Kevin Mangana unmarked, who wasted no time putting the ball beyond the reach of goal Keeper, Akpan Udor for the curtain raiser. The Mexican could have doubled the lead but the chances created were wasted. They were made to pay for the wasted opportunities as Skipper Kelechi Nwakali restored parity by converting a well taken free kick in the 35th minute after an Eaglet player was brought down.
Nigeria took the lead in the 43rd minute, courtesy of a powerful screamer by Orji Okwonkwo. He embarked on a dashing run from the left flank to the centre, just outside the Mexican box area, placing himself at a vantage position to hit a powerful shot that sailed straight into the net for one of the best goals of the night. .
The second half witnessed the Mexican continuing the way they started, pressing the Golden Eaglets to their half. They say “cometh the hour, commeth the man”, Diego Cortes stood up to be counted. He scored a goal arguably the best of the tournament, almost the carbon copy of Diego Maradona's epic goal against England in the 1986 World Cup. He picked the ball inside the Nigerian half, little distance from the center circle, embarked on a mesmerizing solo run like a hot knife through butter, sliced through the Nigerian defence, leaving five players in a heap, straight into the box and calmly slotted the ball beyond goal keeper Akpan Udoh for the equalizer in the 59th minute.
Kelechi Nwakali placed a long splitting pass through the Mexican defence to Osinachi Ebere in the 67th minute. His low shot beat Romero for the third goal of the match.
The contest was put beyond the Mexican in the 83rd minute. Skipper J. Esquivel pushed down Golden Eaglet’s John Lazarus for a needless penalty paving the way for Victor Osimhen wearing jersey no 9 jersey to score his 9th of the Competition. He calmly converted the spot kick sending the Romero the wrong way thereby, equaling the joint all-time record held by Florent Sinama Pongolle of France (2001) and Souleymane Coulibaly of Ivory Coast (2011).
The match could be regarded as the game of the Tournament to date. Nigeria now proceeds to Vina del Mar to meet Mali for an all-African final on Sunday. Mali earlier defeated Belgium by 3-1. The Play-off for third place will feature Belgium going against Mexico at the same venue.
CNF
"We know that it would be a tough game, the toughest game in this World Cup. Both teams had chances. Unfortunately we didn’t score, Nigeria did. This was the difference. But that is football. After our equaliser we thought we controlled the game but then Nigeria scored surprisingly. We wanted to reach the final but we failed. Of course the team is sad but we have to focus now on the third place match," Mario Arteaga, Mexico coach
"It was a difficult match in which both teams did their best. We give credit to Mexico because of their performance and its level of play. We are happy to be in the final and have the chance to defend the world title. Mali is a good team, Africa's champion. This is going to be an interesting challenge," Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach
MATCH VIDEO
NIGERIA 2 VS 0 MALI
Estadio SausalitoVina Del Mar (CHI)
08 Nov 2015 - 19:00 Local time
Final
OSIMHEN 56', BAMGBOYE 59'
STATISTICS
NIGERIA MALI
BALL POSSESSION
49 % 51
ATTEMPTS
12 ATTEMPTS 18
5 ON-TARGET 9
4 OFF-TARGET 4
3 BLOCKED 5
DISCIPLINARY
14 FOULS COMMITTED 16
14 FOULS COMMITTED 16
0 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
0 SECOND YELLOW CARD AND RED CARD 0
0 RED CARDS 0
ATTACKING
9 CORNERS 6
2 OFFSIDES 4
20 FREE KICKS 16
7 SAVES 5
9 CORNERS 6
2 OFFSIDES 4
20 FREE KICKS 16
7 SAVES 5
NIGERIA
1 UDOH (GK) 2 LAZARUS 4 ENOGELA 5 ZAKARI 7 BAMGBOYE (-90') 8 CHUKWUEZE (-80'), 9 OSIMHEN, 10 NWAKALI (C), 14 IKWU, 15 ANUMUDU, 17 EBERE (-46' HT)
Substitutes
16 BENJAMIN (GK), 21 CHIAHA (GK), 3 IBE, 6 MICHAEL, 11 MADUEKE (+46' HT), 12 AGOR, 13 OSIKEL, 18 ESSIE, 19 ALIMI (+90'), 20 OKONKWO(+80')
Coach
AMUNEKE Emmanuel (NGA)
Golden Eaglets retain their crown, beat Mali 2-0
Nigeria became only the second side to retain the FIFA U-17 World Cup with a 2-0 win against Mali in Vina Del Mar. Victor Osimhen stole the show once again thanks to his record-breaking tenth goal of the tournament, with Funsho Bamgboye adding a second moments later. Samuel Diarra had saved an early Osinachi Ebere penalty as the Malians played their part in an entertaining finale to Chile 2015.
The penalty came as both sides were just finding their rhythm in the opening exchanges, Chato the culprit with a handball. Ebere saw his low effort saved brilliantly by Diarra, the No17's follow up header hit the bar before a third bite of the cherry was blocked by the Malian defence.
Both sides had chances in a tense opening period, with Golden Eaglets skipper Kelechi Nwakali hitting just wide and Boubacar Traore seeing his glancing header tipped over by Akpan Udoh.
The second half saw the game burst into life, with Emmanuel Amuneke's words clearly working their magic on the Nigerian youngsters. Osimhen shrugged off the challenge of Mamadou Fofana before hitting a wonderful dipping half volley towards goal, which Diarra spectacularly saved. Udochukwu Anumudu then smashed a thunderous effort at goal, which rebounded back off the crossbar and was cleared away.
Mali did not heed those warnings. Good approach play by substitute Chinedu Madueke saw him tee up Osimhen for his record-breaking goal, seeing him surpass the nine goals scored by Florent Sinama Pongolle in 2001 and Souleymane Coulibaly ten years later.
The holders doubled their advantage mere minutes later, with Bamgboye bursting down the Nigerian left before smashing a powerful effort at goal, Diarra standing little chance.
Despite a couple of late chances for Mali, from corner kicks, Nigeria retained possession for large spells and saw the game out to retain their crown. The jubilant scenes on the final whistle in Vina Del Mar will surely live long in the memories of these Nigerian heroes of the present, some of whom may just become the stars of the future.
FIFA.COM |
"It was a beautiful and entertaining match. I think the people in the stadium enjoyed it today. We knew that Mali are technically very strong, have great individual players and are very fast. We wanted to make no mistakes but we lost the ball many times in the midfield in the first half. But I don’t want to complain because they are all kids. We changed some things in the second half and made some substitutes. That brought us more safety in our game. We are thankful for everything. We wanted to bring the players to their dreams and we did it. Thanks for the support. We feel like we are at home. We have worked very hard for this success and we hope to continue. The players will go home now but their journey is not over yet. Personally I’m really happy. I have football in my blood, as a player and as a coach. This is what I want to pass to my players.“ Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria coach.
MATCH VIDEO
Nigeria's Record at the U-17 World Cup to date.
Top Scorers in U-17 World Cup to date.
1985-China
8-Marcel Witeczek (Germany)5-William (Brazil)
4-Bella Momoh (Nigeria)
1987-Canada
5-Yuri Nikiforov (Russia)5-Moussa Traore (Guinea)
4-Sergei Arutyunian (Russia)
4-Philip Osondu (Nigeria)
1989-Scotland
3-Fode Camara (Guinea)
3-Tulipa (Portugal)
3-Khaled Jasem (Bahrain)
1991-Italy
4-Adriano (Brazil)
4-Nii Odartey Lamptey (Ghana)
3-Jorge Toledano (Mexico)
1993-Japan
6-Wilson Oruma (Nigeria)
5-Nwankwo Kanu (Nigeria)
5-Manuel Neira (Chile)
5-Peter Anosike (Nigeria)
1995-Ecuador
5-Daniel Allsopp (Australia)
5-Mohamed Al Kathiri (Oman)
4-Fernando Gatti (Argentina)
1997-Egypt
7-David (Spain)
5-Hashim Saleh (Oman)
4-Seydou Keita (Mali)
1999-New Zealand
7-Ismael Addo (Ghana)
4-Waleed Rasoul (Qatar)
4-Leonardo (Brazil)
2001- Trinidad & Tobago
9-Florent Sinama Pongolle (France)
5-Femi Opabunmi (Nigeria)
4-Caetano (Brazil)
2003-Finland
5-Cesc Fabregas (Spain)
5-Carlos Hidalgo (Colombia)
5-Manuel Curto (Portugal)
2005-Peru
5-Carlos Vela (Portugal)
4-Nuri Sahin (Turkey)
4-Tevfik Kose (Turkey)
2007-Korea Republic
7-Macauley Chrisantus (Nigeria)
6-Ransford Osei (Ghana)
5-Toni Kroos (Germany)
2009-Nigeria
5-Borja (Spain)
5-Sani Emmanuel (Nigeria)
5-Sebastian Gallegos (Uruguay)
2011-Mexico
9-Souleymane Coulibaly (Cote d’Ivoire)
6-Samed Yesil (Germany)
5-Adryan (Brazil)
2013-UAE
7-Valmir Berisha (Sweden)
6-Kelechi Iheanacho (Nigeria)
6-Boschilia (Brazil)
2015-Chile
10-Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
4-Johannes Eggestein (Germany)
3-Kelechi Nwakali (Nigeria)
Kanu, Ogu, Echiejile Hail Heroic Golden Eaglets
Nigeria trio of Nwankwo Kanu, Elderson Echiejile and John Ogu took to Twitter to shower encomiums on the Golden Eaglets who beat Mali 2-0 early Monday morning to claim their fifth U-17 World Cup title.
Goals from Victor Osimhen and Funsho Bamgboye in the 56th and 59th minute respectively, secured the win for the Eaglets.
Kanu, a winner of the U-17 World Cup in 1993, thanked the players and the coaching crew for making the country proud.
"Champions of the world. Congrats to Amuneke and the coaching crew, congrats to our boys, you all made us proud, we thank God, great nation Nigeria," a happy Kanu tweeted.
Ogu wished the players all the best in their different football careers, both for club and country.
"Congratulations to Golden Eaglets of Nigeria. May all of them be stars in the future for their various clubs and Nigerian football amen.
Echiejile tweeted: "Eaglets are champions of the U-17 again. Congrats U-17, Congrats Nigeria, U-17 Champions."
How Golden Eaglets Won All Five U-17 World Cup Titles
CHINA 1985
Not given much of a chance, the Africans took the first international tournament ever to be held in China by storm, going unbeaten as they claimed Africa’s first ever global football competition.
The Baby Eagles, as they were then known, did not raise expectations when they defeated Italy 1-0 in their first match and followed it up with a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia.
An emphatic 3-0 win over Costa Rica in their third and final group saw the Nigerians safely through to the quarter-finals, where they began to show their true potential.
The Nigerians showed impressive resilience in the quarter-finals after going one behind to Hungary. A stirring comeback saw the Baby Eagles win 3-1 and on their way to triumph.
Fellow West Africans Guinea proved a hard nut to crack in the semi-finals, taking Nigeria to penalties after full-time and extra-time ended 1-1. The mentally strong boys of Sebastian Brodrick-Imasuen won 4-2 and reached their country’s first ever global final.
Few gave them a chance against Germany, but Nigeria eased to a 2-0 victory courtesy of goals from Jonathan Akpoborie and Victor Igbinoba.
Akpoborie and captain Nduka Ugbade, the first man to ever lift the FIFA U-16/U-17 World Cup trophy, went on to become accomplished professionals and senior internationals.
That first global triumph prepared the grounds for what was to become a successful hunting ground for Nigeria.
Nigeria at China 1985
Group
Nigeria 1–0 Italy
Saudi Arabia 0–0 Nigeria
Costa Rica 0–3 Nigeria
Quarter-finals
Hungary 1–3 Nigeria
Semi-finals
Nigeria 1–1 (a.e.t.) (4–2 pen.) Guinea
Final
West Germany 0–2 Nigeria
JAPAN 1993
After coming agonizingly close to defending their title before falling to the USSR in 1987 and crashing out in the quarter-finals to eventual winners Saudi Arabia in 1989, the Golden Eaglets bounced back in 1993.
With arguably the best assembly of Nigerian U-17s ever, coach Fanny Amun forged a team that combined beautiful football with a winning mentality.
Self-styled youth transformer Amun took a team of uber-talented Nwankwo Kanu, Wilson Oruma, Celestine Babayaro and Mobi Oparaku and turned them into a winning machine.
The set of ’93 were not only unbeaten all through the tournament, but they won all their matches, some with ruthless efficiency.
Kanu and Co destroyed Canada 8-0 in their first group match, bludgeoned Argentina 4-0 and saw off Australia 2-0 to claim nine points from nine and a massive plus 14 goals difference.
Hosts Japan put up a brave resistance but fell 2-1 in the quarter-finals, the same scoreline with which Poland and Ghana fell in the semi-finals and final respectively.
Beyond the tournament itself, four of the team’s squad members went on to represent Nigeria at the senior World Cup, all four also winning Olympic gold in 1996: Kanu, Oruma, Babayaro and Oparaku.
Nigeria at Japan ‘93
Group
Canada 0 – 8 Nigeria
Argentina 0 – 4 Nigeria
Australia 0 – 2 Nigeria
Quarter-finals
Nigeria 2 – 1 Japan
Semi-finals
Nigeria 2 – 1 Poland
Final
Ghana 1 – 2 Nigeria
KOREA REPUBLIC 2007
In 2007, the tournament was held in Asia for the third time and it proved third time lucky for Nigeria, the Eaglets following up their wins in China and Japan with success in South Korea.
The Golden Eaglets also completed a virtual clean sweep of all the other accolades up for grabs at Korea 2007.
After beating Spain on penalties in the final, they claimed the adidas Golden Shoe with Macaulay Chrisantus' seven goals. Chrisantus also won the adidas Silver Ball.
The boys of Yemi Tella were ruthless from the start, edging 2001 champions France 2-1 before thrashing Japan and Haiti 4-1 and 3-0 respectively in their group matches.
The round of 16 proved to be a bit tough, but the Eaglets saw off Colombia 2-1, before beating Argentina 2-0 in the quarter-finals.
The Eaglets were too good for Germany in the semi-finals, beating the Europeans 3-1. But Spain refused to budge in the final, holding the Nigerians to a goalless full time and extra time.
The Nigerians however triumphed on penalties, claiming their third U-17 World Cup on Asian soil.
One of the stars of the tournament, Haruna Lukman, went on to represent Nigeria at the senior World Cup just three years later.
Nigeria at Korea 2007
Group
Nigeria 2 – 1 France
Japan 0 – 3 Nigeria
Nigeria 4 – 1 Haiti
Round of 16
Nigeria 2 – 1 Colombia
Quarter-finals
Argentina 0 – 2 Nigeria
Semi-finals
Nigeria 3 – 1 Germany
Spain 0 – 0 (a.e.t.) Nigeria
0 – 3 Penalties
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 2013
The FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2013 featured exciting matches and stunning results with the Golden Eaglets who again claimed the trophy by overcoming Mexico in the final.
The Golden Eaglets made history by becoming the first team to win the tournament four times, surpassing the achievements of three-time winners Brazil.
The team, coached by Manu Garba, was another high scoring one, netting 14 times in three group matches.
The Eaglets smashed Mexico 6-1, drew 3-3 with Sweden and thrashed Iraq 5-0.
Iran fell 4-1 in the round of 16, followed by Uruguay’s 2-0 defeat in the semi-finals.
The Eaglets met Sweden and Mexico again and triumphed over both adversaries.
Sweden fell 3-0 in the semi-finals, the same score line by which Mexico succumbed in the final, giving the Nigerians their fourth trophy on Asian soil.
Kelechi Iheanacho, who scored six goals, was named the most valuable player of the tournament, while Taiwo Awoniyi and Musa Yahaya also stood out.
Nigeria at UAE 2013
Group
Mexico 1–6 Nigeria
Sweden 3–3 Nigeria
Nigeria 5–0 Iraq
Round of 16
Nigeria 4–1 Iran
Quarter-finals
Uruguay 0–2 Nigeria
Semi-finals
Sweden 0–3 Nigeria
Final
Nigeria 3-0 Mexico
CHILE 2015
The Golden Eaglets were attempting to win the title back-to-back for the first time and claim a first trophy outside Asia.
Against all expectations, they achieved both. After coming fourth at the African U-17 Championship and barely scraping through to the World Cup, few gave Emmanuel Amuneke and his boys a chance.
But with the irrepressible Victor Osimhen in full flow, there was no stopping the Eaglets.
They started out by defeating the United States of America 2-0, before annihilating hosts Chile 5-1 in their second group game.
However, having already won their group with a game to spare, the Eaglets suffered a bout of complacency and lost 2-1 to Croatia in a dead rubber.
Amuneke and his boys bounced back with a 6-0 bashing of Australia in the round of 16, then swept aside Brazil 3-0 in the quarter-finals.
The Nigerians beat Mexico 4-2 in the semi-finals, before claiming a historic victory over Mali in an all-African final.
Like Iheanacho just two years ago, Osimhen was the team’s shining light, setting an all-time goals record of 10 goals and becoming the first player in the tournament’s history to score in every game he played.
To cap a wonderful tournament for the Nigerian youngsters, captain Kelechi Nwakali was named MVP.
Nigeria at Chile 2015
Group
Nigeria 2-0 USA
Chile 1-5 Nigeria
Croatia 2-1 Nigeria
Round of 16
Nigeria 6-0 Australia
Quarter-finals
Brazil 0-3 Nigeria
Semi-finals
Nigeria 4-2 Mexico
Final
Nigeria 2-0 Mali
COMPLETE SPORTS
LAST LINE:
Which is the best Nigerian Golden Eaglet team since the inception of the U-17 World Cup? Please lets have your comments on the question.
* Special thanks to fifa.com and Complete Sports.
Please kindly share your comments with us. We will be so glad if you do. Thanks in anticipation.
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