Flying Eagles

Australia have succeeded in breaking the jinx against the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria. They secured a 2-1 victory against Nigeria in the last group stage match.

The win is their first at this stage against Nigeria. Interestingly, it is their sixth meeting after their very first in Japan 1993 U-17 World Cup.

The victory also means they have an opportunity to qualify as one of the best losers. They finished third with four points.

Botic opened scoring for the Australians in the 13th minutes, before Olawale leveled up for Nigeria in the 21st minutes. The goal ensured the first-half ended in a draw.

Caleb Watts made a desperate run in the 53rd minutes and was brought down in 18-yard-box by Usman. The referee pointed to the spot and Botic converted the penalty kick to a second goal.

The goal gave the Australians the desired hope but shifted psychological pressure on the Eaglets who were attempting to maintain a 100% winning streak against Australia.

The Golden Eaglets made 35 attempts at goal and converted just 1 into a goal out of the 12 shots on target. A statistics which showed they were wasteful and poor in finishing in the encounter.

Although the Eaglets lost, they still finished top of their group on superior goal difference, despite tied on points with Ecuador.

Nigeria will have to up their game in their next match on November 5, to ensure they keep their hopes of lifting the trophy alive.