At halftime of their FIFA U-20 World Cup Round of 16 clash in Chile, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles find themselves trailing 2-0 against a well-organized and tactically sharp Argentina side.
Argentina quickly stamped their authority on the match, scoring within the first two minutes. Alejo Sarco calmly slotted home with his left foot from close range, following a precise assist from Dylan Gorosito, catching Nigeria off balance and disrupting their initial game plan.
Despite Nigeria gradually gaining some composure, Israel Ayuma‘s header from Salihu Nasiru‘s corner narrowly missed the target in the 11th minute, signaling their determination to respond.
Argentina reasserted their dominance in the 23rd minute when Maher Carrizo expertly curled a left-footed free kick into the bottom right corner, doubling their lead and exposing Nigeria’s defensive frailties, especially on set pieces.
The remainder of the first half turned increasingly physical, with frequent fouls breaking the rhythm. Nigeria’s midfield trio-Daniel Daga, Amos Ochoche, and Salihu Nasiru-fought tenaciously to regain control. Nasiru’s aggressive play earned him a yellow card in the 33rd minute, one of several cautions during this intense spell.
Argentina also suffered a blow when Álvaro Montoro was forced off due to injury in the 38th minute, replaced by Gianluca Prestianni. Earlier, Carrizo received treatment but was able to continue.
On the offensive front, Nigeria created a notable opportunity in the 30th minute when Tahir Maigana connected with a through ball from Ayuma, only to be denied by Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi. Maigana’s follow-up long-range shot in the 37th minute went over the crossbar.
The most controversial moment came in the 39th minute when Nigeria appealed for a penalty after a challenge inside Argentina’s box. Following a lengthy VAR review, the referee rejected the claim, much to the Flying Eagles’ frustration.
Throughout the half, Argentina controlled the tempo, with midfield generals Carrizo and Valentino Acuña orchestrating play and keeping Nigeria largely on the defensive.
As the teams break for halftime, Nigeria’s coaching staff faces the critical task of reinvigorating their approach. Head coach Ladan Bosso must spark more creativity and urgency if the Flying Eagles are to mount a comeback in the second half.