Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were handed a brutal reality check on Wednesday night as Argentina dismantled them 4–0 in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Santiago.
The six-time champions wasted no time asserting dominance, striking just two minutes after kickoff when Alejo Sarco capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire the opener past a helpless Ebenezer Harcourt.
Maher Carrizo doubled Argentina’s lead in the 23rd minute with a stunning free-kick after Nasiru Salihu’s foul at the edge of the box — a blow that rattled the Nigerians and shifted momentum firmly in the South Americans’ favour.
Nigeria showed flashes of intent through winger Oseer Achihi, whose pace and delivery down the left created brief moments of danger, but Argentina’s defence held firm. A penalty appeal following a heavy challenge on Salihu was waved away, adding to Nigeria’s frustration.
Daniel Daga came closest to restoring hope just before halftime, only to see his effort superbly saved by goalkeeper Santino Barbi.
After the break, Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute, before substitute Matheus Silvetti completed the demolition with a curling effort in the 66th minute to seal Argentina’s emphatic victory.
The defeat ends Nigeria’s campaign in the Round of 16 and marks another painful chapter for the two-time runners-up, whose early promise gave way to defensive lapses and missed opportunities.
Argentina, meanwhile, march confidently into the quarterfinals, reminding the world why they remain the most successful side in U-20 World Cup history.
