Six-time champions Argentina have eliminated Nigeria’s Flying Eagles from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile, claiming a resounding 4-0 victory in their Round of 16 clash on Wednesday night in Santiago.
The result served as sweet revenge for the Argentines, who had been knocked out by Nigeria at the same stage when they hosted the tournament two years ago.
Alejo Sarco opened the scoring for Argentina in the second minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to put the South Americans ahead. Maher Carrizo doubled the lead in the 23rd minute with a perfectly placed free-kick, following a foul by Nasiru Salihu just outside the Nigerian penalty area — a goal that completely disrupted the Flying Eagles’ game plan.
Nigeria had a strong appeal for a penalty waved off when Ramirez appeared to bring down Salihu in the box. Despite the setback, Oseer Achihi proved a constant threat from the left flank, delivering several dangerous crosses that forced Argentina’s defenders into desperate clearances and corner kicks.
In stoppage time of the first half, Daniel Daga almost pulled one back for Nigeria, but his close-range strike was brilliantly parried by Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi, ensuring the scoreline remained 2-0 at the break.
Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute, completing his brace after a swift counter-attack. Substitute Matheus Silvetti then sealed the victory with Argentina’s fourth goal in the 66th minute, bending his shot beyond Nigeria’s goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt after beating the offside trap.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s campaign at this year’s championship, marking a disappointing exit for the two-time U20 World Cup silver medallists, who had hoped to reach the quarter-finals.
A 9am News report gathered that the Flying Eagles will now return home to review their performance as Argentina continue their quest for a record-extending seventh title.
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