In a crucial encounter for both teams, Nigeria U20 and Italy U20 are set to face off in Group B's matchday two of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.
The outcome of this match will determine which team secures a spot in the Round of 16.
As the anticipation builds, here are five key things to note ahead of the showdown between the Flying Eagles and the Azzurrini.
Head-to-head history
This will be the second time these two sides meet at the U20 World Cup. Their only previous encounter took place in the group stage of the 1987 tournament, where Italy emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
With Nigeria never beating Italy's U20 national team at the World Cup, this clash is an opportunity for the Flying Eagles to create history.
High stakes
A victory for either team in this top-of-the-table encounter will guarantee a spot in the World Cup knockout phase with one game to spare.
Nigeria and Italy will be fueled by the same desire to secure progression, intensifying the importance of this match and raising the stakes for both sides.
Contrasting favouritism
While Italy enters the match as the favourites, having defeated pre-tournament favourites Brazil in their opening game, Nigeria boast a better pedigree at the U20 World Cup.
The Flying Eagles have been runners-up on two occasions, showcasing their strength and experience in this competition. On the other hand, Italy's best performance is a third-place finish in 2017.
Nigeria's impressive history at the U20 World Cup adds an extra layer of intrigue to the encounter.
Potential group consequences
Should Nigeria falter against Italy, they will face a daunting challenge in their final group match against Brazil.
A loss to Italy would put the Flying Eagles at risk of missing out on qualification for the knockout phase, making the clash against Brazil a must-win scenario.
This adds significant pressure to Nigeria's performance against Italy, as the outcome could determine their fate in the tournament.
Key players to watch
For Nigeria, midfielder Samson Lawal has emerged as a pivotal figure. With a match-winning goal in their previous game, Lawal's ability to find the back of the net and create opportunities for his teammates will be crucial in Nigeria's quest for victory.
Italy, on the other hand, will rely on the talents of prodigy Cesare Casadei. Casadei's impressive brace against Brazil highlights his immense skill and makes him a formidable force to contend with.
Nigeria's defense will need to find a way to neutralize his impact to increase their chances of success.
As Nigeria and Italy prepare to lock horns in this crucial encounter, the anticipation peaks.
Both teams will give their all to secure progression to the Round of 16, and the result of this match will undoubtedly shape their journey in the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup.
