Strings of mistakes by defenders and goalkeeper contributed to Nigeria’s 2-4 defeat to Brazil in Monday’s group F clash at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.
Gabriel put the Brazilians ahead in the 4th minute, placing the ball into the net after a good move.
Isaac Success leveled for the Nigerians six minutes later, though, slotting the ball into the net after good work from Kelechi Iheanacho, sl10.ng reports.
Alef had a chance to restore the five-time world champions’ advantage on 18 minutes, but he was denied by goalkeeper Joshua Enaholo who pulled a one-handed save.
Just a minute later, Judivan tested Enaholo with a screamer towards the top corner, but the Nigerian goalkeeper was able to dive at full stretch.
Having successfully seen out a spell of constant pressure from Brazil, Nigeria took the lead against the run of play.
Musa Yahaya placed the ball into the bottom-left corner to net his first goal of the competition.
Judivan, who was a constant threat to the Nigerians in the first half, put the Brazilians on level term in the 34 minute.
The ball watching defenders allowed space for a pass to be sliced to the path of Judivan, who rolled the ball into the net.
At the beginning of the second half, the Nigerians were quick out of the blocks with their fluid passing game.
Taiwo Awoniyi who had an average game was denied by Brazil goal tender Jean.
One minute before the hour mark, Brazil took the lead once again.
Substitute Boschilia scored the goal. His speculative strike from long range sneaked past Enaholo.
Nigeria pressed for an equalizer and almost got it when Iheanacho went on a solo run. It was his last contribution of the match as he made way for Kingsley Sokari 15 minutes from time.
The South Americans finally nailed the African champions in the 82nd minute.
Judivan profited from another criminal error by Enaholo to complete an impressive brace.
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