Argentina 4-0 Nigeria: Flying Eagles suffer joint-heaviest defeat in Fifa U20 World Cup history

Nigeria’s dream of winning their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup suffered a heavy blow on Wednesday night as the Flying Eagles were humbled 4-0 by South American powerhouse Argentina in the Round of 16 at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez in Santiago, Chile.

It was the Flying Eagles' joint-heaviest defeat in U20 World Cup history, matching the 4-0 losses suffered against Brazil in 1987 and Chile at Canada 2007.

Aliyu Zubairu's boys struggled to contain Argentina's clinical attacking display, with Alejo Sarco opening the scoring in just the second minute to hand the South Americans an early lead.

Maher Carrizo doubled the advantage in the 23rd minute with a perfectly executed free-kick. 

Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute during a swift counterattack, before Argentina sealed the rout in the 66th minute through a well-worked team move finished by Mateo Silvetti.

This match marked the third U-20 World Cup meeting between the two sides, with each team having won once previously. 

Nigeria had the advantage in their last encounter in 2023, securing a 2-0 victory on Argentine soil. 

However, this time the tables were turned as Argentina exacted revenge with a convincing performance.

Despite moments of promise, the Flying Eagles were unable to create clear opportunities, and their attack lacked the sharpness needed to trouble Argentine goalkeeper Barbi.

The Flying Eagles now face the task of rebuilding and learning from their exit, while Argentina moves forward with confidence, eyeing a deep run in the U-20 World Cup and a potential title challenge.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: afa.com.ar

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