2019 FIFA U20 World Cup : Five Takeaways From Nigeria's 1-1 Draw Against Ukraine

Nigeria's Flying Eagles on Thursday evening booked their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup as one of the four best losers in the group stages after a hard fought 1-1 draw against Ukraine.

Izuchukwu Okosi pinpoints the five lessons learned as Paul Aigbogun's team laboured to pick a solitary point.

1. Flying Eagles Need To Start Well In Round of 16 Match

The Flying Eagles were harried and put under pressure from kick by the Ukrainians which played into the hands of the eastern Europeans.

Paul Aigbogun's team must be the ones applying the pressure from the start and possibly  go into ascendency rather than chase the game.

2. Nnamdi Ofoborh Was Nigeria's Best Player Against Ukraine

Bournemouth of England midfielder Nnamdi justified his inclusion in the Flying Eagles side with a commanding performance on Thursday evening.

The youngster attacked and defended at will as the hitherto playmaker Dele-Bashiru wasn't fielded. 

3. Hungry Makanjuola Should Start Round of 16 Clash

Water FC forward Success Makanjuola who started in place of Henry Offia was lively throughout the period he was in action.

The Nigerian number 17 showed he has quick feet and crosses that can cause havoc for opponents. Aigbogun must start this boy in the knockout stage (s) as he has the ability to win the team matches.

The winger even had a direct free kick almost dipping into the Ukrainian net but goalkeeper Andriy Lunin managed to palm over for another corner kick.

4. Okon Was One of Bright Spots

Akwa United's Aniekeme Okon is a good midfield player whose runs and ball retention is a welcome development.


5. Apathy By Fans

Not many fans have been watching the Flying Eagles at the U-20 World Cup in Poland or even at home on TV for varying reasons but it's appalling to see only a handful of Nigerians at  the stadium.

There were swathes of empty seats at the stadium. Perhaps a knockout stage berth could change that narrative.