U20 World Cup: What starting eleven for Nigeria against Saudi Arabia?

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia will square off this Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 11:00 PM GMT at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca in the second matchday of Group F of the 2025 U20 World Cup.

The Flying Eagles need a must-win to erase the memory of their opening defeat against Norway (0-1) at the start of the competition.

Also read: 2025 U20 World Cup: The full schedule for the first round

In pursuit of victory, Aliyu Zubairu is set to line up his starting eleven in a 4-3-3 formation, with Harcourt between the posts. Bameyi and Akinyele will anchor the center-back positions, while Ochoche and Okoro will operate as full-backs.

Daga, Nasiru, and Ayuma will marshal the midfield, while Arierhi will lead the line, supported by Maigana and Achihi.

Here is Nigeria's likely starting eleven: Harcourt – Bameyi, Akinyele, Ochoche, Okoro - Daga, Nasiru, Ayuma – Arierhi, Maigana, Achihi.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.