Nigeria will take on Colombia in their third and final Group B encounter at the Corinthians Arena in São Paulo on Wednesday (10 August).
Colombia face a must win game when they take on group leaders Nigeria on Wednesday after managing draws in their first two encounters against Sweden and Japan. The South Americans were expected to reach at least the semi-finals during pre-tournament predictions, but face a tough task against an in-form Nigeria.
The Los Cafeteros finished both their games with a 2-2 scoreline and must get a win to ensure qualification to the knockout phase of the event. A draw could see Japan and Sweden overtake them with a win in the match that takes place simultaneously. Oghenekaro Etebo scored four goals for Nigeria during their 5-4 win over Japan in the opening group game, on the other hand, are ensured of top spot in the group after recording back-to-back wins over Japan and Sweden. The African team were not expected to make it out of the group stages with Japan and Colombia expected to progress.
However, Samson Siasia's team have upset odds and made it to the quarterfinals despite landing in Rio just six hours before their first match against the Asian U23 champions. They won their first game 5-4 with Etebo scoring four goals, while Umar Sadiq got the winner against Sweden in their second match which they won 1-0.
Team News
Nigeria
Possible XI: Daniel; Shehu, Troost-Ekong, Sincere, Amuzie; Okechukwu, Usman; Ezekiel, Obi Mikel, Etebo; Umar.
Colombia
Possible XI: Bonilla; Palacios, Balanta, Tesillo, Machado; Barrios, Perez; Roa, Gutierrez, Pabon; Borja.