FIFA Under-20 World Cup: How South Korea Beat Nigeria, Plus Key Observations from the Game
The journey of Nigeria in the ongoing Under-20 FIFA World Cup has been ended by South Korea after 1-0 defeat in their quarter final fixture.
In the game, with few thrills, South Korea took advantage of an extra time goal to make the difference and beat the Flying Eagles of Nigeria by the minimum.
The Taegeuk Warriors of South Korea scored for the 95th minute goal through Choi Seok-Hyun header to send the West African team out of the World Cup.
After their shocking defeat of hosts Argentina in round of 16, the Flying Eagles failed to progress to the semi final, crashing out at same stage like in 2007.
This is the fourth time Nigeria crashed out at the quarter finals in history as Nigeria’s team crashed out in 1999, 2007 and 2011. 
However, South Korea could surpass their 2019 record where they finish as runners-up if the Taeguk Warriors can beat their next opponent.
Key Observations from the Game
- Early Korea dominance
The Asians had better control of the game early in the game with their more coordinated style and buildup play.
However, the Flying Eagles started to assert themselves midway through the first half.
- Flying Eagles build up plays, passes
The Flying Eagles had good build up plays but they were also fond of retreating by passing backwards and sideways.
Conversely, the Koreans were forward thinking when they build from the back.
- The Eagles right sided attacks
The Flying Eagles launched most of their attacks from the right side of attack more than the left side.
The Koreans found it extremely difficult to curtail the Nigerians form there.
- Eagles missed Sarki
Pacy forward Haliru Sarki was not named in the matchday squad for the game against South Korea.
The Nigerian number 7 failed a fitness test ahead of the game and would have been a menace for the Koreans to deal with from the left side of attack.
- Emmanuel was best sub
Umeh Emmanuel came off the bench in the second half with other teammates.
Ultimately, he proved to be the most lively Flying Eagles player from the substitutes bench.
Highlight of his hardworking display was when he was close to getting a late equaliser but the ball hit the side netting just before the full time whistle after 120 minutes of football.
