Nigeria shines as Golden Eaglets retain FIFA U-17 World Cup for record 5th success

Nigeria shone brightly on Sunday, becoming only the second side to retain the FIFA U-17 World Cup with a 2-0 win against Mali at Vina Del Mar in Chile. 

Striker Victor Osimhen stole the show once again, thanks to his record-breaking 10th goal of the tournament, with Funsho Bamgboye adding a second moments later.

Samuel Diarra had saved an early Osinachi Ebere penalty kick as the Malians played their part in an entertaining finale to Chile 2015.

The penalty kick came as both sides were just finding their rhythm in the opening exchanges, Chato the culprit with a handball.

Ebere saw his low effort saved brilliantly by Diarra, and his follow-up header hit the bar before a third bite of the cherry was blocked by the Malian defense.

Golden Eaglets, the heroes with the coveted World Cup.

Both sides had chances in a tense opening period, with Golden Eaglets’ skipper Kelechi Nwakali hitting just wide and Boubacar Traore seeing his glancing header tipped over by Akpan Udoh.

The second half saw the game burst into life, with Coach Emmanuel Amuneke's words clearly working their magic on the Golden Eaglets.

Osimhen shrugged off the challenge of Mamadou Fofana before hitting a wonderful dipping half volley towards goal, which Diarra spectacularly saved.

Udochukwu Anumudu then smashed a thunderous effort at goal, which rebounded back off the crossbar and was cleared away.

Mali did not heed those warnings, as Nigeria looked more daring and intent on finishing off the job in the pursuit of Nigeria’s fifth title win.

Then it happened, in the 56th minute, from a good approach play by substitute Chinedu Madueke which saw him tee up Osimhen for his record-breaking goal.

The goal saw him surpass the nine goals scored by Florent-Sinama Pongolle in 2001 and Souleymane Coulibaly 10 years later.

The title-holders doubled their advantage three minutes later, with Bamgboye bursting down the Nigerian left before smashing a powerful effort at goal, and leaving Diarra with little chance.

In spite of a couple of late chances for Mali, from corner kicks, Nigeria retained possession for large spells and saw the game out to retain their crown.(NAN)