Nigeria’s U-20 team, known as the Flying Eagles, achieved an exciting 3-3 draw against Colombia’s U-20 side in their final preparation match before the U-20 FIFA World Cup in Argentina.

The Nigerian team, already coming off a victory against Argentine second-division Club Almirante Brown’s reserve side, put up a strong fight against their Colombian counterparts.

Despite missing AC Milan talent Victor Eletu, who is yet to join the camp, the Flying Eagles continued their training sessions and faced the South American opponents without the 18-year-old prodigy. Unfortunately, Colombia took an early lead when Nigerian defender Abel Ogwuche scored an own goal after 20 minutes. They extended their advantage in the 29th minute with a penalty conversion by Oscar Cortes.

Just before halftime, Nigerian forward Jude Sunday showcased his skill and reduced the deficit, scoring a goal for his team in the 40th minute. In the second half, Colombia quickly found their third goal around the hour mark through Watford midfielder Yaser Asprilla. However, the Flying Eagles displayed resilience and fought back, with winger Ibrahim Muhammad Beji and striker Emmanuel Umeh finding the back of the net to salvage a draw.

Having secured a win and a draw in their two warm-up matches, Nigeria’s U-20 team is now well-prepared for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Their first match in the competition will be against debutants Dominican Republic on Sunday, May 21st, at 11 am.

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