Flying Eagles Rout Guatemala 5-0

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles last night got off to a flying start at the 18th FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Colombia with a comprehensive 5-0 trouncing of debutants, Guatemala in Armenia, Colombia.

It was the opening match of Group D and one the Nigerian team needed to perform to announce their intentions at the World Youth Championships.

The John Obuh-tutored side, made up of most of the silver winning 2009 FIFA Under -17 World Cup  team  got off the blocks in blistering fashion bombarding their Central American opponent from all angles.

A first half brace from Odafe Egbedi put the Nigerians in good stead for a total domination and class act that must have put them in the group of favourities for the championships.

Indeed, the Flying Eagles could have taken the scoreline to double digits if they had taken most of the opportunities they created.

However, three more goals in the second half from Abduljelil Ajagun, Kayode and one of the stars of the match, Ahmed Musa ensured that the team scored a healthy victory to take command of Group D.

Of importance is the fact that the team was able to overcome its poor pre-championship record to make a clear statement in Colombia. They were able to show tactical discipline, power, effective wing play, pace and enthusiasm to attack and defend as a unit.

On the few occasions Guatemala threatened the defence anchored on Kenneth Omeruo, Ganiyu Ogungbe, Terna Suswam and Emmanuel Anyanwu showed impressive co-ordinated resistance.

Also the midfield, marshaled by Skipper Ramon Azeez and Daniel was alive while both flanks were effectively used to put the opponent under pressure.

With the victory, Egbedi becomes joint leading scorer of the championship, while Nigeria become the highest scoring side so far.

After a mixed opening day performances by African representatives, Nigeria’s victory is the continent’s first and sign of better things to come at the competition.

Now, the Flying Eagles await Croatia on Wednesday for a second tie that could see them book a place in the next round with a game to spare.