Nigeria’s journey at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 came to an end in the round of 16 in Santiago, when 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 keeper Ebenezar Harcourt stranded.

It was a nightmarish start for Aliyu Zubairu’s team, who seemed agitated by Argentina’s early pressure and mobility.

The Young Albiceleste doubled their advantage midway through the first half through Maher Carrizo, whose curling free-kick from just outside the box nestled into the bottom-right corner, leaving Harcourt with no chance.

The Flying Eagles found themselves chasing shadows for large spells but nearly halved the deficit before the interval when Daniel Daga chested down a loose ball inside the area and volleyed goalwards, only to be denied by a brilliant one-handed save from Santino Barbi.

Argentina resumed the second half in the same dominant fashion, showing greater composure and sharper attacking transitions.

Their pressing forced mistakes from Nigeria’s midfield, and in the 53rd minute, Milton Delgado robbed Daga on halfway before slipping the ball through to Carrizo, who calmly slotted past Harcourt for his second of the night and Argentina’s third.

The Flying Eagles’ defensive frailties were again exposed thirteen minutes later when Mateo Silvetti latched on to a crossfield pass, beat Daniel Bameyi on the right and curled a precise finish beyond Harcourt into the far corner to complete the rout.

Despite several substitutions from Zubairu, including the introductions of Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Auwal Ibrahim, and Charles Agada, Nigeria failed to find rhythm or cutting edge in attack.

Their best chances came late on through Kparobo Arierhi and Haruna Aliyu, but neither could convert from promising positions.

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