U20 World Cup: Flying Eagles crash out after 4-0 defeat to Argentina
Nigeria’s U20 side, the Flying Eagles, have been eliminated from the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile after suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 on Wednesday night.
Argentina made a blistering start, taking the lead in just the second minute through Alejo Sarco, before Maher Carrizo doubled the advantage in the 23rd minute with a superb free-kick after Nasiru Salihu was penalised for a foul at the edge of the box.
The Flying Eagles had a strong appeal for a penalty turned down after a clumsy challenge by Ramirez on Salihu in the area. Oseer Achihi was a constant threat down the left flank, delivering dangerous crosses that forced the Argentines into desperate defending, conceding several throw-ins and corners.
Daniel Daga came close to pulling one back for Nigeria in first-half stoppage time, but his close-range effort was saved by goalkeeper Santino Barbi, keeping Argentina two goals up at the break.
The South Americans resumed the second half with renewed energy, and Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute to make it 3-0. Substitute Matheus Silvetti then completed the rout in the 66th minute, beating the offside trap before bending his effort past Ebenezer Harcourt into the bottom corner.
The defeat ends Nigeria’s campaign at the 2025 U20 World Cup, with the two-time silver medallists bowing out at the Round of 16 stage.
