FIFA U-20: Nigeria Knocks Out Host Argentina

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles accomplished what appeared to be a daunting task when they secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U20 World Cup by defeating the host nation Argentina 2-0 at the San Juan Stadium, on Wednesday.

This is due to the fact that aside from being the hosts with guaranteed massive home support, Argentina are also the most successful nation in FIFA U-20 World Cup history, with six titles to their name.

Argentina was very dominant from 1995 to 2007 when they remarkably won five out of the seven editions of the U20 World Cup during this period.

Although Argentina dominated the game; controlling possession in the first half and looking like the stronger team, the Flying Eagles held on and regrouped in the second half.

Nigeria defended well and waited for counterattacks, which paid off in the 61st minute when Ibrahim Muhammed sent a one-time shot past the Argentine defense to out the Flying Eagles ahead.
Rilwanu Sarki, who was introduced in the second half, doubled Nigeria’s lead with a free header in extra time.

The result means that Nigeria will face the winner of the Ecuador versus South Korea match in the quarter-finals.