Nigeria’s hopes of advancing at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile were shattered after a crushing 4–0 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 in Santiago.
The South Americans produced a masterclass in pressing and precision, striking twice in each half to secure a place in the last eight. In contrast, the Flying Eagles — six-time runners-up at this level — looked overwhelmed by the pace and tactical discipline of Diego Placente’s side.
Argentina, who are chasing a record-extending seventh U-20 world title, wasted no time asserting control. Alejo Sarco opened the scoring just two minutes in, tucking home Dylan Gorosito’s low cross after confusion in the Nigerian defence left goalkeeper Ebenezar Harcourt exposed.
It was the worst possible start for Aliyu Zubairu’s men, who struggled to find rhythm against Argentina’s high press. Their discomfort deepened midway through the first half when Maher Carrizo doubled the lead with a beautifully curled free-kick into the bottom-right corner — a strike Harcourt could only watch sail past.
Nigeria tried to respond, showing brief flashes of attacking intent. Their best moment came five minutes before the break when Daniel Daga controlled a loose ball inside the box and unleashed a fierce volley, only for Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi to tip it away with a superb one-handed save.
But Argentina never eased off. The second half followed the same script — possession, pressure, and precision. In the 53rd minute, a midfield error from Daga proved costly as Milton Delgado dispossessed him and slipped a through ball to Carrizo, who made no mistake, slotting calmly into the far corner for his second of the night.
By then, Argentina were in full command. Nigeria’s attempts to play out from the back repeatedly broke down under pressure, while the Albiceleste kept probing with quick interchanges and overlapping runs down both flanks.
A fourth goal arrived late on, sealing Nigeria’s exit and underscoring Argentina’s superiority. For Zubairu’s side — who finished second in their group behind Spain — it marked a disappointing end to what had begun as a promising campaign.
Argentina, meanwhile, advance to the quarter-finals brimming with confidence and will now face either Colombia or South Korea as they continue their quest for another U-20 crown.
About the Author
