Nigeria’s Flying Eagles’ attempt to win the first-ever U-20 World Cup came to an end on Sunday when they were defeated 1-0 by South Korea at the Santiago Del Estero.
Choi Seok-hyeon’s extra-time goal made the difference as the Asians advanced to the U-20 World Cup semifinal in Argentina, where they will play the European champions, Italy.
Samson Lawal, who assisted on the second goal against the South Americans four days earlier, was replaced by Victor Eletu in Ladan Bosso’s one alteration from the team that upset the hosts Argentina on Wednesday.
Nigeria had the better start to the game and came close to scoring the game’s first goal barely two minutes in.
Daniel Bameyi floated a wonderful cross into the Korean area after dribbling past two opponents, but the ball, intended for Ibrahim Muhammad, was blocked and cleared into safety after furious defending by the Asians.
The Bosso guys maintained their domination, and in the eighth minute, Abel Ogwueche came dangerously close to breaking the tie.
Ogwueche headed Tochukwu Nnadi’s well-placed corner kick directly into the clutches of goalkeeper Kim Jun-hong.
The swift and nimble Red Devils were held in check by the Flying Eagles, who maintained their leadership.
Kang Seong-jin was replaced by Bae Jun-ho at the start of the second half because he increased the threat of his attack.
Despite the coach’s early substitution, the Nigerians continued to be the team that appeared most likely to score. Captain Bameyi’s venomous long-range drive forced a fine save from Jun-hong, but the goalkeeper was up to the challenge and managed to keep the score tied.
After an hour of play, South Korea started to emerge as the more threatening team. Lee Seung-joon’s curler past Nigeria’s Kingsley Aniagboso in goal, but it nearly missed the goal.
Bosso quickly responded by sending in Umeh Emmanuel and Kehinde Ibrahim in place of Fago Lawal and Muhammad, respectively.
South Korea seized the lead just four minutes into extra time when Choi Seok-hyeon headed in Lee Young-jun’s corner kick, their first shot on goal of the game.
With only 10 minutes remaining, Emmanuel missed a wonderful opportunity to give Nigeria an equalizer when he volleyed his shot very high beyond the goal posts.
The South Koreans secured a spot in the semi-finals and will play Italy on Thursday by maintaining their slim lead.