Extra-Time Drama Sees Norway and France Advance to U-20 World Cup Quarter-Finals
Norway and France secured their places in the quarter-finals of the ongoing U-20 World Cup in Chile with a dramatic extra-time victories, joining Argentina and Colombia in the next round.
In a tense match against Paraguay, Norway’s Niklas Fuglestad scored a decisive goal in the 116th minute, clinching a 1-0 win in their first-ever knockout game. The match was fraught with missed opportunities for both sides, including a missed penalty by Tiago Caballero for Paraguay, who hit the woodwork in the 13th minute. Despite numerous chances and a disallowed goal for Paraguay, it was Fuglestad’s late strike that sealed the victory, sending Norway through to face France in Valparaiso.
France also triumphed in a nail-biting affair, edging out Japan 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Lucas Michal deep into stoppage time. Japan dominated much of the match, firing numerous shots on goal but failing to find the back of the net. Just as the match seemed destined for a penalty shootout, France was awarded a late penalty after a successful video review. Michal’s conversion sent the French side into the quarter-finals, much to the disappointment of Japan, who had fought valiantly throughout the contest.
Earlier in the day, Argentina cruised past Nigeria with a resounding 4-0 victory. The Young Albiceleste opened the scoring within the first minute, with Alejo Sarco tapping in a cross from Dylan Gorosito. Maher Carrizo added two goals, while Mateo Silvetti capped off the scoring. Argentina will now face Mexico in the quarter-finals.
Colombia also advanced with a 3-1 win over South Africa, with Joel Canchimbo scoring early and Neyser Villareal netting twice to secure their place. South Africa’s lone goal came from a penalty converted by Mfundo Vilakazi.
