Argentina thrash Nigeria U20 4–0 to reach the Under-20 World Cup quarter-finals, displaying ruthless precision and dominance in a one-sided clash

Argentina thrash Nigeria U20 in a ruthless 4–0 demolition on Wednesday night, cruising into the Under-20 World Cup quarter-finals after a commanding display of skill, speed, and composure.

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The match, held at the Estadio Ciudad de la Plata in Chile, saw the South American giants dismantle the Flying Eagles with clinical precision.

From the opening whistle, Argentina imposed their rhythm, controlling possession and creating relentless pressure on the Nigerian defence.

The tone was set in just the second minute when Alejo Sarco pounced on a clever pass from Dylan Gorosito to tap home the opener, putting Argentina firmly in charge.

Nigeria struggled to regain composure before Maher Carrizo doubled the lead in the 23rd minute with a sensational free-kick that curled beyond goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt’s reach.

Despite brief moments of attacking promise from Tahir Maigana, Daniel Daga, and Amos Ochoche, the Flying Eagles failed to convert their chances. Daga’s first-half header — brilliantly saved by Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi — was the closest Nigeria came to scoring.

Argentina’s dominance continued after the break. Carrizo struck again in the 53rd minute, finishing calmly after a pinpoint through ball from Milton Delgado.

Mateo Silvetti sealed the emphatic win in the 66th minute with a composed low strike after gliding past two Nigerian defenders.

Frustration crept into Nigeria’s play, culminating in a yellow card for Emmanuel Ekele following a reckless tackle in the 77th minute — a decision upheld after VAR review.

Late efforts from Kparobo Arierhi and Auwal Ibrahim offered little consolation as Argentina closed out the match with ease.

When Italian referee Maurizio Mariani blew the final whistle, the result was clear: a masterclass from Argentina and a sobering night for Nigeria.

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The victory reinforced Argentina’s status as serious contenders for the title, while the Flying Eagles now face calls for a tactical and mental rebuild.