Nigeria were knocked out of the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina at the quarterfinal stage on Sunday following a 1-0 defeat to South Korea after extra time. Choi Seok-Hyun headed in a corner kick in the 95th minute to confirm South Korea’s passage to the semifinals where they will play Italy on Thursday. The defeat was a difficult one for Nigeria who generated more opportunities but could not find a way past the well organized Korean defense.
While the Nigerian team were more eager to attack the Flying Eagles struggled to create clear chances throughout. The first half contained mostly hopeful attempts from long range from both sides. Victor Eletu created Nigeria’s most dangerous attack in the 29th minute after driving past a couple of defenders but his shot was tipped wide by South Korea goalkeeper Kim Jun-Hong.
It was more of the same in the second half. Nigeria captain Daniel Bameyi fired right at Kim inside the opening five minutes but the match appeared destined for penalty kicks after the teams remained scoreless at the end of ninety minutes. However the Korean team delivered a gut punch early in extra time when the Nigerian defense lost track of Choi who snuck in at the near post to flick a well placed header past Nigeria keeper Chijioke Aniagboso from a Lee Seung-won corner kick.
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