 |
| Image:X |
Argentina demonstrated their dominance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup as they cruised to a 4-0 victory over Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in the knockout stage on Wednesday night.
The South Americans produced a ruthless display in Mendoza, overwhelming their opponents with pace, precision, and tactical discipline.
It took Argentina just two minutes to open the scoring through Alejo Sarco, who capitalized on a fine cross from Dylan Gorosito to tap home from close range. The early goal rattled the Flying Eagles, who struggled to find their rhythm against a high-pressing and technically superior side.
Maher Carrizo doubled Argentina’s lead in the 23rd minute with a brilliant left-footed free-kick that left Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt rooted to the spot.
Carrizo struck again eight minutes into the second half, finishing off a well-worked move to make it 3-0 and effectively seal Nigeria’s fate.
Mateo Silvetti completed the rout in the 66th minute after converting from Gianluca Prestianni’s precise pass, putting the result beyond doubt and sending Argentina into the next round in style.
Despite the heavy defeat, Nigeria showed flashes of effort, with Daniel Daga coming close in the first half and Kparobo Arierhi hitting the post in stoppage time.
Harcourt also made several key saves to prevent an even larger scoreline. However, Argentina’s quality in transition and control of the midfield left the Flying Eagles chasing shadows for most of the encounter.
Nigeria’s coach, Ladan Bosso, made multiple substitutions early in the second half, introducing Auwal Ibrahim, Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Emmanuel Ekele, and Charles Agada in an attempt to mount a comeback.
The tactical switch, however, failed to make an impact as Argentina maintained complete control, dominating possession and shutting down any Nigerian counterattacks.
The loss marks a disappointing end to Nigeria’s U-20 World Cup campaign, as the Flying Eagles bowed out after being comprehensively outplayed by one of the tournament’s strongest contenders. Argentina’s victory reinforces their reputation as perennial powerhouses at youth level, with many tipping them as favourites to lift the trophy.
Meanwhile, Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi earned praise for his calm presence and key saves, ensuring his side kept a clean sheet. For Nigeria, the defeat exposed the need for better organization, composure, and attacking sharpness at international level.
As the Flying Eagles head home, attention now turns to the future, with fans calling for more investment in player development and tactical planning ahead of the next youth competition.
#FIFA
#Nigeria
#Argentina
No comments:
Post a Comment