By Samuel Adeola
Argentina cruised into the U-20 World Cup quarter-finals with a dominant 4-0 victory over Nigeria’s Flying Eagles on Wednesday night at the Estadio Ciudad de la Plata in Chile.
The South Americans controlled the game from start to finish, displaying precision and flair, while Nigeria struggled to find rhythm despite brief flashes of intent.
Alejo Sarco opened the scoring in the 2nd minute from Dylan Gorosito’s clever assist, before Maher Carrizo doubled the lead in the 23rd minute with a brilliant free-kick.
The Flying Eagles attempted a comeback through Tahir Maigana and Daniel Daga, but Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi kept them at bay with key saves.
Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute, finishing off Milton Delgado’s through ball, and Mateo Silvetti sealed the rout in the 66th minute after dribbling past two defenders.
Nigeria’s frustration grew as Emmanuel Ekele was booked in the 77th minute following a VAR review. Late efforts from Kparobo Arierhi and Auwal Ibrahim failed to alter the scoreline.
Argentina’s emphatic win booked their place in the last eight, leaving Nigeria to reflect on a disappointing campaign.
