The Super Eaglets scored twice in the second half, through Chukwudi Agor (50th minute) and Victor Osimen (61st) to take the early initiative in Group A. The USA’s Auston Trusty was sent off three minutes from the end.
In the other Group A match, Chile were held to a 1-1 draw by Croatia. Croatian captain Nikola Moro opened the scoring after just eight minutes, but Yerko Leiva spared the hosts’ blushes with a 33rd minute equaliser.
In Group B, Jang Jaewon scored 10 minutes from time to sink Brazil, who also had a man sent off, Geovane seeing red in the dying moments of the match for a high challenge.
England, meanwhile were pegged back by Guinea in Group B’s earlier match, Naby Bangoura slotting home a 71st minute equalizer to cancel Kaylen Hinds’ 60th minute headed goal. Marcus Edwards missed a first half penalty for England.
In Sunday’s matches Australia face Germany and Mexico take on Argentina in Group C, while Mali are up against Belgium and Honduras meet Ecuador in Group D.
South Africa play Costa Rica at 22h00 (SA time) on Monday night.