The Flying Eagles’ journey at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 came to an end in the round of 16 in Santiago, where Argentina defeated them 4-0.
The South Americans were merciless and clinical, scoring twice in each half to advance to the quarterfinals, while the Flying Eagles battled to keep up with Diego Placente’s persistent effort.
Alejo Sarco set the tone for a strong performance within the first two minutes, sliding home from close range after Dylan Gorosito’s cross left goalkeeper Ebenezar Harcourt stranded.
It was a nightmarish start for Aliyu Zubairu’s team, who appeared agitated by Argentina’s early pressure and mobility.
The Young Albiceleste extended their lead midway through the first half thanks to Maher Carrizo’s curling free kick from well beyond the box, which found the bottom-right corner, leaving Harcourt with no chance.
For many stretches, the Flying Eagles were chasing shadows, but they nearly cut the lead in half before halftime when Daniel Daga chested down a loose ball inside the area and volleyed goalwards, only to be stopped by a spectacular one-handed save from Santino Barbi.
Argentina resumed the second half in the same commanding form, with better calmness and quicker attacking movements.
Their pushing forced mistakes from the Flying Eagles’ midfield, and in the 53rd minute, Milton Delgado stole the ball from Daga halfway before passing the ball to Carrizo, who easily tapped it beyond Harcourt for his second goal of the night and Argentina’s third.
The Flying Eagles’ defensive flaws were revealed again thirteen minutes later, when Mateo Silvetti grabbed on to a crossfield pass, beat Daniel Bameyi on the right, and curled a brilliant finish past Harcourt into the far corner to seal the victory.
Despite Zubairu’s substitutions, which included the arrivals of Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Auwal Ibrahim, and Charles Agada, Nigeria’s assault lacked rhythm and a cutting edge.
Their finest chances came late in the game from Kparobo Arierhi and Haruna Aliyu, but neither converted from good positions.
Argentina, on the other hand, handled the closing moments with maturity, maintaining possession and controlling the tempo as they glided into the final eight.
Their composure was reflected in the statistics, as they had more shots on goal and completed nearly twice as many passes as the Flying Eagles.
Nigeria’s dissatisfaction was exacerbated by instances of indiscipline, with Nasiru Salihu and Emmanuel Ekele both booked in the second half. The VAR was briefly consulted for a potential penalty against the Flying Eagles in the first half, but the referee dismissed appeals after analyzing the event.
Zubairu’s team showed signs of potential, particularly through Daga and Maigana, but a lack of coordination and defensive errors proved costly.
The result also highlights the gap between Nigeria and the tournament’s elite, barely two years after their spectacular victory over the same opponents in the 2023 edition.
Argentina will now face Mexico in the quarterfinals, hoping to extend their incredible record at this level.
