Afrigather In an important encounter for each groups, Nigeria U20 and Italy U20 are set to face off in Group D’s matchday two of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.
The end result of this match will decide which crew secures a spot within the Spherical of 16.
Nigeria come into the sport on the again of a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic.
After falling behind to a well-taken penalty, the Flying Eagles showcased their resilience by equalizing by means of an personal purpose and finally securing the win with Samson Lawal’s medical end. Their confidence will probably be excessive as they purpose to construct on their opening success.
Italy, however, delivered a press release of intent by defeating five-time winners Brazil 3-2 of their Group D opener.
The Europeans dominated the primary half, racing to a three-goal lead earlier than withstanding a spirited Brazilian fightback.
This spectacular efficiency highlighted their attacking prowess and willpower.
Head-to-head
Nigeria face Italy in a extremely anticipated Group D encounter on matchday two of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.
Nigeria are making their thirteenth look on the match and reached the ultimate in 1989 and 2005, whereas Italy have participated seven instances earlier than, with their finest consequence being a third-place end in 2017.
Apparently, these two groups have met solely as soon as earlier than within the historical past of the U20 World Cup, with Italy prevailing with a 2-0 victory in Chile in 1987, securing their place on the prime of Group B and sending Nigeria to an early exit.
Nigeria’s participant to observe: Samson Lawal
Samson Lawal, the proficient Nigerian midfielder, demonstrated his affect by scoring the winner in opposition to the Dominican Republic of their opening match.
Having already impressed with a purpose and two assists in Nigeria’s bronze medal-winning marketing campaign on the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Lawal is predicted to be a key determine once more because the Flying Eagles tackle Italy.
Together with his capability to seek out the again of the online and create alternatives for his teammates, Lawal will probably be essential to Nigeria’s possibilities of securing a spot within the Spherical of 16.
Italy’s participant to observe: Cesare Casadei
Italy’s standout performer in opposition to Brazil was midfield prodigy Cesare Casadei.
The Chelsea midfielder showcased his immense expertise by scoring an excellent brace and inflicting havoc for the Brazilian protection.
Thought to be some of the promising skills of his technology, Casadei’s well-rounded expertise and technical capability make him a formidable power within the Italian lineup.
Nigeria should discover a approach to comprise him in the event that they need to stand an opportunity in opposition to Italy.
Match particulars
Competitors: FIFA U20 World Cup
Recreation: Group D, Matchday 2
Fixture: Nigeria U20 vs. Italy U20
Venue: Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza, Provincia de Mendoza
Date: Wednesday, Might 24, 2023
Kickoff Time: 7:00 pm (Nigerian time)
Prediction
With each groups in good kind and desperate to safe development, a tightly contested match is anticipated.
Nonetheless, Nigeria’s willpower and Lawal’s affect on the sport could give them a slight benefit. A intently fought 2-1 victory for Nigeria U20 is a believable consequence.
