South American powerhouse Brazil have finished top of Group D at the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina following their 2-0 win over Nigeria.
Despite losing their opening game of the tournament to Italy, the Young Samba Boys defeated the Dominican Republic 6-0 in their second game.
Knowing that only a win would confirm their place in the next round, the Brazilians pulled off a 2-0 win over Nigeria to turn the table around.
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Going into this game, the West Africans needed just a draw to seal the top spot, but they found themselves behind in the first half, no thanks to Henrique Pedroso and Marquinhos’ goals.
Italy walloped the Dominican Republic 3-0 in the other group game to seal qualification to the next round.
In the end, Brazil finished top of the six points while Italy followed in second place on goal difference.
Despite losing their last game, Ladan Bosso’s side also advance to the next round, confirming their place among the best losers.
Punch reports that Brazil continue their dominance over their Nigerian counterparts since they first met 40 years ago at Mexico ‘83.
In 1983 when Mexico hosted the tournament, first-timers Nigeria lost 3-0 to Brazil in the group stage, and then the Young Selecao were also 2-0 winners at the 1985 edition of the tournament.
Brazil thrashed Nigeria 4-0 at the 1987 tournament in Chile. This fixture ended goalless in 2005 and then 1-1 in 2013.
Gambia cause major upset
The Gambian side is the second African team to advance to the next round of the competition after the Flying Eagles of Nigeria.
Against all odds, the Young Scorpions proved their mettle, outplaying their French counterparts and maintaining their 100 per cent run at the tournament.
