Flying Eagles drew Chile in World Cup prep

The Flying Eagles opened their preparations for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup with a 1-1 draw against hosts Chile on Saturday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The friendly in Rancagua marked the first of two tune-up matches lined up ahead of the tournament, which kicks off on September 27 in Santiago, Chile.

Nigeria struck first through Ahmed Akinyele in the 18th minute, the Remo Stars defender rising highest to nod home from a corner delivered by Tahir Maigana.

The South Americans, however, found a response 18 minutes later when Felipe Faúndez slotted past goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt to restore parity.

The start of the second half saw Harcourt make two crucial saves in quick succession to deny the hosts an early lead.

Coach Aliyu Zubairu later introduced Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Kparobo Arhieri and Auwal Ibrahim as second-half substitutes in a bid to inject fresh energy into his side, but the match ended level.