Nigeria last night began the defence of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup on a bright note, defeating the United States of America 2-0 as the 2015 championship got underway in Chile.

Second half strikes from Chukwudi Agor and Victor Osimhen were all the Golden Eaglets needed to breeze aside the stubborn North American side at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos, Santiago De Chile.

Both teams went into the contest effectively battling to win as it would determine their progress to the next round.

Emmanuel Amuneke’s boys dominated proceedings in the early part of the game but were unable to break down the Americans who were resolute in defending.

Haji Wright had the first clear opportunity to score after 13 minutes but his effort – following a cross from Christian Pulisic was driven waywardly over the cross bar.

After a scoreless first half that was characterised by several misses, the Golden Eaglets came out of the blocks in the 50th minute through Agor, who profited from a moment of slumber by the American backline to drive home his first in the competition.

Ten minutes later, Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead after skillfully beating two defenders and calmly finishing past helpless goalkeeper Pulisic.

Richie William’s side suffered a massive set back in their bid for a come back as Auston Trusty was expelled from the game a wicked tackle on Osimhen.

Nigeria with this victory lead Group A with three points and will face Chile on Wednesday morning at the Estadio Sausalito, Vina Del.

•Photo shows Golden Eaglets skipper Kelechi Nwakali.