Nigeria v South Korea: U20 World Cup QF – Preview, H2H as Flying Eagles ambush Asian Tigers

As the FIFA U20 World Cup reaches its quarterfinal stage, the stage is set for an exhilarating clash between Nigeria and South Korea.

The two teams will face off at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades on Sunday, June 4, 2023, in what promises to be a captivating encounter.

Both teams have shown their mettle in the previous rounds, and with a spot in the semifinals at stake, they will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.

Preview

South Korea enter the quarterfinals on the back of a thrilling 3-2 victory over Ecuador in the Round of 16.

Their attacking prowess was on full display as they orchestrated a remarkable win over the South Americans.

It was a quality they did not show much of in the group stages. Back in Group F, the South Koreans finished second in Group F after registering a stunning 2-1 win over France.

The Asian Tigers, however, only laboured to goalless draws against Gambia and Honduras after that.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles reached the quarterfinals after showcasing their determination, resilience, fighting spirit, and quality when defeating Argentina 2-0 in the first knockout round.

The West Africans shot down the hosts courtesy of second-half goals from Ibrahim Muhammad and Haliru Sarki.

It would be recalled that Nigeria finished third in Group D, accumulating six points from two wins and one defeat. They overcame the Dominican Republic (2-1) and Italy (2-0) but stumbled against Brazil.

Match Facts

The Flying Eagles have a mixed record in the quarterfinals of the FIFA U20 World Cup, with three victories (two via penalties) and three defeats in their six previous encounters.

Having appeared in the tournament 12 times, Nigeria have been runners-up twice, highlighting their pedigree on the global stage.

South Korea, making their 15th appearance, reached the final in 2019 but fell short of lifting the trophy.

Head-to-Head

Sunday’s clash will mark the third meeting between these two nations at the U20 level. South Korea claimed a 2-1 victory in their first encounter during the 2005 edition held in the Netherlands. Nigeria eventually picked up a silver medal at that tourney.

However, Nigeria got their revenge in 2013, emerging as 1-0 winners in Turkey, courtesy of Olanrewaju Kayode’s decisive goal.

Overall, Nigeria boast an impressive record against Asian opponents, securing five wins, one draw, and suffering just one defeat, with an aggregate scoreline of 14-3.

Match Details

Tournament: 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup
Stage: Quarterfinal
Match: South Korea U20 vs Nigeria U20
Date: Sunday, 04/06/2023
Kickoff: 18:30
Venue: Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades

Prediction

With both teams possessing immense talent and a hunger for victory, the match is expected to be tightly contested.

South Korea’s Taegeuk Warriors will rely on their attacking prowess, while Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will showcase their resilience and determination.

Ultimately, the outcome of this clash is difficult to predict as the young talents strive to leave their mark on the global stage.

Football fans worldwide can look forward to a thrilling quarterfinal encounter between these two nations vying for a spot in the semifinals.