U20WC Match Preview: Flying Eagles hope to soar against Argentina’s aggressive defense

While the Flying Eagles have not won the competition despite reaching the final twice (1989 and 2005), Argentina have established themselves as the most successful team by claiming the title six times.

In a Round of 16 matchup at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Nigeria will face Argentina, one of the tournament’s top teams.

The Flying Eagles, one of the finest third-placed teams to advance to this round, earned six points to set up an enticing draw with the host nation.

In their first Group D match in Argentina, Nigeria defeated the Dominican Republic 2-1 before defeating Italy 2-0.

In their most recent encounter, however, Ladan Boss’s squad struggled against the Brazilian heavyweights.

When Nigeria take the field at the San Juan del Bicentenario Stadium, they will attempt to mute Argentina in front of their boisterous home fans.

The South Americans, on the other hand, reached this point through ruthlessness. They scored ten goals in three games while allowing none.

Group A champions, they defeated Uzbekistan, Guatemala, and New Zealand to earn a perfect score.

Head-To-Head Document

The final of the 2005 edition of the competition featured Nigeria and Argentina. However, under the leadership of Lionel Messi, the Young Abiscelete defeated their West African adversaries 2-1. This is the only meeting between the teams throughout the tournament.

While the Flying Eagles have not won the competition despite reaching the final twice (1989 and 2005), Argentina have established themselves as the tournament’s most successful team by claiming the championship six times (1979, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2005, and 2007).

Even though the host has an extensive history at this level, Bosso believes Nigeria can surpass their South American opponents.

“We must compete for the championship. I believe it’s still available. Everyone can be there, and I believe we have the ability to be there,” he stated prior to the contest.

“We are now in the knockout stage, and in the knockout stage, there is a strategy we can employ, and we hope that our plans will be carried out as intended.”

Men to Watch Who Are Stars

Victor Eletu of AC Milan has performed admirably for Nigeria thus far, and he is anticipated to lead his team’s midfield in the competition’s hardest encounter to date.

Abel Ogwuche and Daniel Daga are two additional players to keep an eye on when the match in Argentina begins.