Head Coach of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Aliyu Zubair, has expressed confidence in his team’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stage of the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup tournament in Chile after their hard-fought 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia on Friday.

Speaking after the match, Zubair commended his players’ fighting spirit, noting that their determination was the key to securing the much-needed win.

“The boys were really determined to get the win and that’s what motivated them,” the coach said.

“We have now shifted the focus to the next game against Colombia, and our main target is to secure the maximum three points so we can be assured of a ticket out of the group stage.”

With their first victory of the tournament, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles now have three points and occupy third position on the Group F log.They will face Colombia in their final group game 12am on Monday.

Nigeria defeated Saudi Arabia 3-2 in an eventful Group F encounter in Talca on Friday morning to brighten their chances of reaching the Round of 16 at the ongoing 24th FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile.

Midfielder Nasiru Salihu scored Nigeria’s first goal of the tournament by converting in the 10th minute, but the Asians were back on level terms in the 21st minute through Amar Alyuhaybi.

Undaunted, the seven-time African champions went in front again as Amos Ochoche scored with seven minutes left in the first period. The first half ended with Nigeria leading 2-1.

Six minutes into the second half, Saudi Arabia were again back on level terms, thanks to Talal Haji.

Nigeria secured victory with four minutes into added time when Captain Daniel Bameyi converted from the penalty spot.

Victory means the two-time World Cup finalists will reach the Round of 16 if they get a result against Colombia on Monday.