Nigeria’s first defeat at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup came at the hands of Brazil, who proved to be a formidable opponent for the Nigerian Flying Eagles.
The match ended in a disappointing 2-0 defeat for Nigeria in their final group stage match.
Brazil took control of the game early on, scoring both of their goals in the first half through Jean Pedroso and Arsenal’s Marquinhos.
Despite Nigeria’s early attacking efforts, the South Americans dominated the encounter and deservedly went into halftime with a two-goal lead.
In the second half, Brazil continued to dominate and came close to extending their lead on several occasions.
Nigeria, on the other hand, hit the post in their attempts to score a goal. Brazil ultimately held on to their lead, securing their position at the top of Group D with six points.
Nigeria also finished with six points but dropped to third in the group after Italy’s 3-0 victory over the Dominican Republic in the other group match.
Despite securing a spot in the knockout stage before the match, Nigeria’s defeat to Brazil will be a setback for Ladan Bosso and his team.