The Nigerian Flying Eagles are gearing up for a highly anticipated Round of 16 encounter against Argentina at the 24th FIFA U20 World Cup currently underway in Chile, according to Soccernet.ng.
Revisiting a fixture from two years prior, this matchup recalls one of Nigeria’s standout youth football moments-a 2-0 victory over the host nation in San Juan, thanks to goals from Ibrahim Muhammad and Haliru Sarki.
Now, under the guidance of coach Aliyu Zubairu, the team aims to replicate that success in Santiago by leveraging the tactical discipline and confidence that have characterized their tournament journey so far.
While Argentina cruised through their group stage with a perfect nine points, Nigeria’s grit and determination in a more challenging group have highlighted their mental toughness.
Top Five Flying Eagles Players Poised to Challenge Argentina
1. Daniel Bameyi
As captain, Bameyi has been the driving force behind the Flying Eagles’ efforts. He has netted goals in back-to-back games, converting penalties against Saudi Arabia and Colombia. His crucial late equalizer against Colombia secured Nigeria’s advancement to the knockout rounds.
His leadership and defensive acumen will be critical in stifling Argentina’s potent offensive threats.
2. Amos Ochoche
At just 19, right-back Amos Ochoche has been a standout performer for Nigeria. He scored against Saudi Arabia and delivered an impressive all-around performance versus Colombia, tallying 64 touches, creating a significant chance, winning 10 duels, intercepting 3 times, and clearing the ball 4 times.
His dual capacity to defend stoutly and support attacks will be essential in managing Argentina’s wide players while adding attacking width for Nigeria.
3. Tahir Maigana
Although Maigana has yet to score, his dynamic movement and physicality have consistently troubled opposing defenders.
In the match against Colombia, he took four shots-the most in the game-with an expected goals (xG) value of 0.22 and an expected goals on target (xGOT) of 0.51.
His passing accuracy stands at 78%, with 73% precision in the attacking third, demonstrating his sharp decision-making in congested areas. If he can convert chances, Maigana could be the key to unlocking Argentina’s defense.
4. Israel Ayuma
Ayuma has steadily increased his influence in midfield, orchestrating play and controlling the game’s rhythm. Against Colombia, he completed 23 of 31 passes (74%), including 8 of 11 in the attacking third (73%), and executed 4 long passes with one accurate cross.
His skill in linking defense to attack and maintaining possession under pressure will be vital in disrupting Argentina’s counterattacks.
5. Kparobo Arierhi
Nicknamed “the next Victor Osimhen” by Alex Iwobi, striker Kparobo Arierhi has yet to score in Chile but has shown relentless effort and intelligent movement that keeps defenders unsettled.
Having taken 11 shots in the group phase, his determination is clear. The knockout stage against Argentina could be the perfect platform for his breakthrough goal, potentially propelling Nigeria into the quarter-finals.
Match Details: Nigeria vs Argentina
The eagerly awaited Round of 16 match between Nigeria and Argentina is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile.
The kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. Nigerian time, as the Flying Eagles aim to recreate their electrifying performance from San Juan and advance further in the tournament.
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