“Ice in his veins” – CAF hails Flying Eagles star who powered Nigeria’s win over Saudi Arabia

Flying Eagles needed a last-gasp penalty to overcome Saudi Arabia in Chile early on Friday morning, with the manner of victory impressing the continent's football-governing body

CAF has singled out Daniel Bameyi for special praise after the Flying Eagles captain showed remarkable composure to drag Nigeria past Saudi Arabia in the U20 World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 19-year-old defender, who had conceded a penalty in the opening loss to Norway, stepped up to convert a 94th-minute spot-kick in Talca that sealed a thrilling 3-2 win for Nigeria in the early hours of Friday.

“Ice in his veins, ball in the back of the net. Captain duties on display at death for Daniel Bameyi,” wrote CAF on its official X handle.

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It was a decisive moment in a game that looked set to slip away. Bameyi, usually the rock at the heart of the back line, turned match-winner under immense pressure, sending the Saudi goalkeeper the wrong way to claim Nigeria’s first victory of the tournament.

The goal capped an intense contest in which the Flying Eagles twice surrendered a lead before finally breaking their opponents’ resolve. More than just a penalty, it was redemption for Bameyi, whose handball against Norway had cost Nigeria dearly on matchday one.

The victory lifts Nigeria back into contention in Group F, but the task ahead remains daunting. Next up is a decisive clash against Colombia on Sunday, a match the Flying Eagles cannot afford to lose.

Colombia arrive in Talca unbeaten, though not untouchable. They played out a goalless draw with Norway in their last outing, spurning several clear chances.

Head coach César Torres remained upbeat, insisting his team is progressing:

“We had possession, we wore down the opponent. I have nothing to criticize the lads for; we continue to improve.”

La Tricolor know that one win will be enough to confirm their passage to the round of 16, and they are treating Nigeria as their biggest hurdle yet.

Captain Kéiner González, who picked up a booking against Norway, said:

“It’s important, now we must improve and seek qualification against Nigeria.”

History between the two sides adds further intrigue. The only previous meeting at U20 level came in a friendly in 2023, which ended 3-3. Nigeria’s attacking energy then proved a handful, and Abel Ogwuche’s own goal was all that spared Colombia from defeat.

For Nigeria, the challenge is clear. Finishing has been a recurring issue – 19 shots against Norway yielded nothing – but Friday’s comeback against Saudi Arabia showed the grit and belief still present in the camp.

Sunday’s clash at the Fiscal Stadium in Talca promises to be one of the group stage’s defining fixtures. Nigeria will need the leadership of Bameyi once more, not only in defence but also in nerve. The Eagles are flying again, but their wings will be tested against Colombia.