Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have arrived in Santiago, Chile, setting up camp for the FIFA U20 World Cup with teenager Kparobo Nathaniel Arierhi carrying the nation’s attacking hopes – www.naijnaira.com reports.
The 18-year-old forward, who plays for Mjøndalen IF in Norway, is already drawing comparisons with Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.
Reports confirm the youngster has been tagged “the new Osimhen” thanks to his blistering pace and sharp finishing.
Speaking from camp, Arierhi said, “We are preparing very well and doing our best. I believe we’re ready for this and we’ll give everything to make our country proud.”
Nigeria will spend 12 days in Santiago finalizing preparations before their opening Group F clash against Norway on September 29.
The Flying Eagles will also face Colombia and Saudi Arabia as they target a place in the knockout stages.
Nigeria has not reached the U20 World Cup final since 2005, when Lionel Messi’s Argentina denied them the trophy.
Arierhi already played a key role in Nigeria’s U20 WAFU triumph after scoring twice in the final against Ghana.
He admits the disappointment of only managing bronze at the U20 AFCON fuels their hunger heading into this tournament.
The striker is particularly looking forward to facing Norway, saying, “Some of my friends play for them, so it will be exciting to compete against people I know, but the goal is to get the points.”
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has backed him to reach even greater heights, saying, “You’ve got great technique and composure, maybe you could be the next Osimhen or even better.”
With Arierhi’s rising profile and the Flying Eagles’ determination, Nigerian fans will be eager for a breakthrough performance in Chile.
Article updated 10 hours ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
