The Golden Eaglets, yesterday evening, began the campaign to retain the U-17 World Cup when they thrash their opponent from the United States of America with 2-0 in the opening match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.
The opening goal came during a scramble in their danger zone and Chukwudi Agor wasted no time in converting 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.
The first 45 minutes however saw plenty of chances for both sides. USA’s Haji Wright came closest to opening the scoring 13 minutes after getting Christian Pulisic’s cross but the No7 could not make it as the ball went off across the bar.
Pulisic in particular tormented the Nigerian backline with skillful displays, launching attacks from the left flank. But the Super Eaglets held on and five minutes after the break took the lead.
With half an hour remaining, Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead after cleverly beating two defenders and calmly ran pass Pulisic.
To make matters worse for USA, Auston Trusty was shown a 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 a less than a man advantage, the Eaglets confidently controlled the tempo of the game until the final whistle. [myad]
