Nigeria has now won the FIFA U-17 World Cup for a record fifth time, and also has one of her own, Victor Osimhen as the all-time U-17 goal scorer with 10 goals at the tournament, eclipsing Souleyman Coulibaly and Florent Sinama Pongolle’s 9 goals apiece. It was a night of making history as Nigeria put to pieces Mali’s dream of lifting a first ever FIFA U-17 World Cup at Viña del Mar as they crumbled 2-0 to Nigeria at the Estadio Sausalito.
Nigeria thus became the second country only, to successfully defend her title after Brazil – which has lifted the trophy thrice.
First Half
Nigeria had a chance to get the lead in the opening minutes of the encounter when Osinachi Ebere had his penalty saved by Samuel Diarra after Chato had been punished for handling the ball in his penalty area.
Second Half
On resumption of the second half, the newly crowned champions were forced to make an early change with Ebere finding his way to the substitute’s bench.
First, it was Osimhen who added his tenth of the tournament to become the first player in the history of the competition to score in every game of the championship, before hardworking Funsho Bamgboye doubled the lead three minutes later.
Towards the closing stages of the game, the Malians tried everything within their reach to force a comeback, but the dazzling Eaglets held their nerves, thwarting every attack from the opponents and ended up as world champions for the fifth time.
All The Awards:
Adidas Golden Ball: Kelechi Nwakali (Nigeria)
Adidas Silver Ball: Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Adidas Bronze Ball: Aly Malle (Mali)
Adidas Golden Boot: Victor Osimhen (10 Goals – Nigeria)
Adidas Silver Boot: Johannes Eggesten
Adidas Bronze Boot: Kelechi Nwakali (Nigeria)
Adidas Golden Glove: Samuel Diarra (Mali)
Fair Play Award: Ecuador
See Also: 15 Interesting Facts You Never Knew About Victor Osimhen
