By Angu Lesley
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Maher Carrizo scored twice as Argentina powered past Nigeria 4–0 to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. Alejo Sarco and Mateo Silvetti were also on target in a one-sided contest that underlined the South Americans’ title credentials.
Fast Start from the Albiceleste
Argentina needed just two minutes to break the deadlock when Alejo Sarco reacted quickest to a loose ball and slotted home from close range. The early goal unsettled Nigeria, who struggled to deal with Argentina’s aggressive pressing and precise passing in midfield.
Maher Carrizo doubled the advantage in the 23rd minute, curling a fine effort beyond the Nigerian goalkeeper to make it 2–0. The Flying Eagles tried to regroup, but Argentina continued to dictate play and went into the interval firmly in control.
Carrizo and Silvetti Seal the Rout
Carrizo grabbed his second goal shortly after the restart, finishing off a slick team move in the 53rd minute to effectively end the contest. Nigeria, unable to cope with Argentina’s movement and composure, were punished again when substitute Mateo Silvetti added a fourth with a tidy strike in the 66th minute.
Argentina’s defence, marshalled superbly by captain Federico Redondo, held firm to record another clean sheet, while goalkeeper Federico Gomes Gerth was rarely troubled.
Tactical Overview
Head coach Javier Mascherano’s side combined high pressing with fluid positional play, stretching Nigeria’s back line and controlling possession with confidence. Carrizo’s ability to drift between the lines proved decisive, while Argentina’s midfield trio dominated territory throughout.
Nigeria, who impressed in the group stages, were unable to replicate that form. Their transitions were too slow, and they struggled to create clear-cut chances against Argentina’s compact structure.
What It Means
The result sends Argentina into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner between Colombia and Japan.
For Nigeria, it marks a disappointing end to a campaign that had promised much after a strong start.
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