Flying Eagles qualify for U20 World Cup quarter final with shock win over hosts Argentina

NIGERIA'S Flying Eagles have qualified for the quarter finals of the ongoing U20 World Cup in sensational style by knocking out hosts Argentina in a dramatic 2-0 win last night thanks to two second half goals from strikers Ibrahim Muhammad and Haliru Sarki.

Argentina’s U20 team, the young Albiceleste, considered overwhelming favourites, faltered against the resilient Flying Eagles at the Estadio San Juan last night. Despite Argentina’s impressive performance in the group stage, where they scored 10 goals to top Group A, Nigeria, who finished third in Group D, emerged triumphant.

Muhammad and Sarki proved to be the game-changers for Nigeria, netting two crucial goals in the second half. This victory not only marked Nigeria’s first-ever win against Argentina at this level but also propelled the Flying Eagles into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2011.

Javier Mascerano, the Argentine coach, said their premature exit from the tournament is undoubtedly a disappointment for Argentina, a team renowned for its success in previous under-20 tournaments. He added that despite the devastating loss, he has chosen not to resign from his position.

Mr Mascherano said: “Life goes on, it hurts our souls, we did everything.  The boys gave everything but football is like that sometimes it gives and sometimes it takes away.”

He added that a decision on his future rests with the Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia but emphasized his desire to continue coaching the team. Currently ranked number one in the world in men's football, Argentina have by and large had the better of Nigeria in global football tournaments at most levels, especially the senior and U20 teams.

“I have a great relationship with Tapia and I will continue until he doesn’t want me to. As long as they believe in me, I’ll be here,” Mr Mascherano added.

As Nigeria celebrate their well-deserved victory, the Flying Eagles now await their quarterfinal opponents, who will be either Ecuador or South Korea. These two teams meet tonight at the Santiago del Estero Stadium as 10pm GMT.