The storied football rivalry between Argentina and Nigeria is set for another compelling chapter as the two nations face off in the Round of 16 at the U-20 World Cup in Chile this Wednesday. A classic fixture in senior, youth, and Olympic tournaments, the match promises a dramatic clash of styles.
Argentina enters the knockout stage with a flawless record, standing alongside Japan as the only team to win all three of its group matches. The Albiceleste showcased a formidable attack with a 3-1 victory over Cuba, a dominant 4-1 win against Australia, and a 1-0 triumph over Italy. Known for their cohesive teamwork, direct attacking play, and potent finishing, they are one of the tournament’s highest-scoring teams. Striker Alejo Sarco is currently among the competition’s top scorers with three goals.
In contrast, Nigeria navigated a more challenging path to the Round of 16. The team opened with a 1-0 loss to Norway but quickly rebounded with a 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia. Facing elimination against Colombia, Nigeria secured its advancement with a crucial penalty just five minutes from the final whistle. The Nigerian squad employs a more physical approach, relying on the relentless pace of its midfielders and full-backs.
The highly anticipated match will be held at the 55,000-capacity Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos in Santiago and officiated by Italian referee Maurizio Mariani.
Projected Lineups
- Argentina: Santino Barbi; Dylan Gorosito, Santiago Fernández, Tobías Ramírez, Julio Soler; Milton Delgado, Valentino Acuña, Maher Carrizo, Álvaro Montoro, Gianluca Prestianni; Alejo Sarco.
- Nigeria: Ebenezer Harcourt; Odinara Okoro, Haruna Aliyu, Daniel Dayemi, Amos Ochoche; Israel Ayuma, Daniel Daga; Saeed Suleiman, Nasiru Salihu, Mahir Maigana; Kparobo Arierhi.
Kick-off Times
- 1:30 p.m. Mexico City
- 2:30 p.m. Bogotá
- 3:30 p.m. Miami (ET)
- 4:30 p.m. Buenos Aires
- 9:30 p.m. Madrid
Where to Watch
- Argentina: Telefe, Mitelefe.com, Mi Telefe App, DSports
- Mexico: TUDN México, FIFA+
- United States: Fanatiz
