Nigeria U20 vs Colombia U20: Five stars who will be key for the Flying Eagles in win-or-bust World Cup clash
The Flying Eagles of Nigeria take on Colombia in their final group stage game of the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup on Monday morning.
Nigeria enter the game with three points, after losing their opener to Norway 1-0 and grinding out a 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, Colombia defeated the Saudis in their opening game of the tournament and shared the spoils with Norway in their second fixture to reach four points.
The Flying Eagles sit third in Group F, but unlike their seniors, the Super Eagles, they still have their fate in their hands, as a win will surely see them through to the round of 16.
Final act in Group F, we fight till the very end.#SoarFlyingEagles #U20WC pic.twitter.com/ksnwgNhcCe
— The NFF (@thenff) October 5, 2025
Ahead of the game against Colombia, Soccernet.ng lists five players who could be key against Los Cafeteros.
1. Nasiru Salihu
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder was the most influential attacking player in Nigeria’s 3-2 draw against Saudi Arabia last time out. He got a goal and an assist.
So this time, all eyes will surely be on him. Salihu has pace, is decent in the air, and a fine dribbler. He will definitely give the Colombians a tough challenge.
2. Kparobo Ariehri
Dubbed “little Osimhen”, the Mjondalen man is yet to get amongst the goals for Nigeria. He had some good looks against Norway and Saudi Arabia, but he failed to score.
But while he’ll be disappointed, he even be hungrier going into the Colombia game. Ariehri’s is really quick and strong, and he will look to use these qualities to trouble the Colombian defence.
3. Daniel Daga
The Molde star had a mixed outing in the tournament, but he is definitely one of the players that Zubairu will be banking on.
His ability to dictate play from deep and link midfield to attack is really important. Also, Colombia, like most teams from South America, will be very physical. Daga is rock solid and has the physical game in his drawer, so that will he good for the Flying Eagles.
4. Ebenezer Harcourt
The teenage goalkeeper hasn’t really had a great tournament so far. But he can be really clutch.
At just 15, Harcourt has already built a reputation for composure beyond his years. He has also proven to have a good command of the box.
Los Cafeteros will definitely have some chances, but with Harcourt in goal, the Flying Eagles have adequate cover.
5. Daniel Bameyi
Bameyi has been a real leader for the Flying Eagles in the tournament so far. He is smart and ruthless with attackers. He also has some good long passes in him.
Against Saudi Arabia, he scored the penalty that sealed the win for the Flying Eagles. So in case there’s another spot kick, Bameyi can definitely be trusted to do the damage.
