Nigeria U20 vs Ukraine U20 Predictions

Nigeria are chasing a place in the last 16 of the Under 20 World Cup when they meet Ukraine. With the group finely poised, there’s still a chance for all four sides going into their final round of matches. Of all of them, Nigeria face the toughest task as they need to see off the current leaders. They’ve seen a brilliant start to the tournament from Ukraine, but will Nigeria be able to step up as they look to finish up with a victory?

Nigeria made a brilliant start to the 2019 tournament, as they kicked off with a 4-0 hammering of Qatar. That certainly boosted their goal difference – it remains the biggest win of the group so far. However, a 2-0 loss to the United States in their last game leaves them at risk of missing out. The top two sides in the group are guaranteed a place in the next round, while four of the six sides who finish in third will also make it. However, the third-placed sides will be sweating it out until the final day of the group stage waiting to make it through.

Ukraine are set for the last 16, even if they lose this clash and end up third they’ll still be heading into the next round. That’s bound to result in changes for this clash, as Ukraine look to build on their fine start. With two wins from two, they can relax for this one, while they are able to rest some main stars to keep them fresh for the last 16. After all, Ukraine have yet to make it past the last 16 at this tournament, having reached that stage three times in the 21st century. Will they play the long game in their push for the last 16?

We do expect some changes from the Ukrainians, as they’ve managed to get over the line. Despite their early strong displays, there are still questions around this team. They’ve scored just three goals in two games – winning just 1-0 against Qatar – while two of their three strikes have come from defender Denys Popov. This isn’t a free-flowing side, while Nigeria have proven themselves going forward. Even with a couple of changes, we can see Ukraine showing some weakness here.

The pressure is on Nigeria to deliver, while we expect the 2005 finalists to get the result they need. They’ve got to channel their performance from the opener, while we expect them to be aided by Ukraine making key changes. That has us backing Nigeria to claim a fourth win in their last six games at this tournament. We’re backing Nigeria to win this clash, while we’re also going for a 2-0 victory for the African side.