Argentina eliminates Nigeria from the Under-20 World Cup

Six-time champions Argentina soundly defeated Nigeria 4-0 on Wednesday evening in Santiago, eliminating the Flying Eagles from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.

The result avenged Nigeria’s elimination of Argentina at the same stage two years ago when they hosted the tournament.

Alejo Sarco opened the scoring for the Argentines just two minutes into the match, setting the tone for a dominant performance.

Maher Carrizo doubled the lead with a sublime free kick in the 23rd minute after Nasiru Salihu fouled an opponent on the edge of the area, disrupting Nigeria’s rhythm early on.

Nigeria’s appeal for a penalty was ignored despite Ramirez’s stiff challenge on Salihu in the box.

Winger Oseer Achihi was lively on the left flank, producing dangerous crosses that kept the Argentine defense under pressure, even as they managed to clear the lines through corners and throw-ins.

Just before half-time, Daniel Daga nearly got one back, but his close-range shot was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Santino Barbi to preserve Argentina’s 2-0 lead.

Carrizo scored again in the 53rd minute and made it three, before substitute Matheus Silvetti added a fourth in the 66th minute, deflecting his shot past goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.

The defeat ends Nigeria’s season in the round of 16, marking a disappointing exit for the two-time silver medallists.

[Vanguard]

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