Argentina Knocks Nigeria Out of FIFA U20 World Cup
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have been eliminated from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup after suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to six-time champions Argentina in their Round of 16 clash on Wednesday evening in Santiago, Chile. The loss ended Nigeria’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament and served as revenge for Argentina, who were knocked out by Nigeria at the same stage two years ago.
Argentina wasted no time taking control of the match, with Alejo Sarco opening the scoring in just the second minute. The pressure on Nigeria increased when Maher Carrizo doubled Argentina’s lead in the 23rd minute with a brilliant free-kick following a foul by Nasiru Salihu near the edge of the box.
Despite Nigeria’s attempts to respond, an appeal for a penalty after a challenge on Salihu by Ramirez was dismissed by the referee. Oseer Achihi created several dangerous chances from the left flank, but Argentina’s defense stood firm, conceding only corner kicks and throw-ins to ease the pressure.
The Flying Eagles came close to reducing the deficit in first-half stoppage time when Daniel Daga’s effort was stopped by Argentina’s goalkeeper Santino Barbi, keeping the score 2-0 at halftime.
Argentina continued their dominance in the second half, with Carrizo netting his second goal in the 53rd minute after another quick counterattack. Substitute Matheus Silvetti sealed Nigeria’s fate in the 66th minute, slotting home Argentina’s fourth goal after beating the offside trap.
The defeat marked the end of Nigeria’s campaign at this year’s tournament. The Flying Eagles, who have been two-time runners-up in the competition, will now look to rebuild and come back stronger in future tournaments.
