Santiago: Six-time champions Argentina eliminated Nigeria from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile, triumphing in their Round of 16 tie with a commanding 4-0 victory on Wednesday evening. This win allowed Argentina to avenge the Flying Eagles’ previous triumph over them at the same stage during the tournament held in Argentina two years ago.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Argentina’s Alejo Sarco opened the scoring as early as the second minute, setting the tone for the match. Maher Carrizo extended the lead in the 23rd minute with a precise free-kick, following a challenge by Nigerian midfielder Nasiru Salihu at the edge of the box. Despite a clumsy challenge by Argentina’s Ramirez on Salihu in the penalty area, the referee dismissed Nigeria’s appeal for a penalty.
Throughout the match, Nigeria’s Oseer Achihi posed a significant threat from the left wing, delivering crosses that forced Argentina’s defense to work hard, resulting in multiple throw-ins and corner kicks. Just before halftime, Daniel
Daga’s close-range effort was thwarted by a superb save from Argentina’s goalkeeper Santino Barbi, maintaining a 2-0 advantage for Argentina.
In the second half, Carrizo further increased Argentina’s lead with a third goal in the 53rd minute. Matheus Silvetti, coming off the bench, sealed the victory in the 66th minute by beating the offside trap and scoring Argentina’s fourth goal. This defeat marked Nigeria’s elimination from this year’s championship, a disappointing end for the two-time silver medallists.