The African challenge at the U20 World Cup has concluded, with both representatives, Nigeria and South Africa, bowing out of the tournament following decisive defeats to their South American counterparts in the knockout rounds.
Nigeria’s Run Ends Against Argentina
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles saw their expedition come to an end in disappointing fashion after suffering a comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Argentina at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago on Wednesday evening. Despite qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams and carrying the hope of replicating their previous triumph over the South Americans two years ago, the Flying Eagles appeared lacklustre against the six-time world champions.
The Argentines took a deserved early lead when Alejo Sarco slid in to tap home a Dylan Gorosito cross. Before Nigeria could settle, the damage was doubled in the 23rd minute when Maher Carrizo curled a low free-kick past the Nigerian defense for his first goal. Though the seven-time African champions tried to assert themselves, they struggled to contain the fast-paced and tactically gifted opposition. Any hope of a comeback was extinguished seven minutes before the hour mark when Carrizo completed his brace, calmly finishing after the ball was stolen at the halfway line. Mateo Silvetti completed the rout in the 66th minute, securing Argentina’s progression into the last eight where they will face Mexico.
South Africa Crumbles to Colombia
It was a similar tale of disappointment for the reigning African U20 champions, South Africa’s Amajita, who crumbled 3-1 to Colombia in Talca. The South Americans made a bright start, with Joel Canchimbo volleying home a pinpoint cross from Oscar Perea to take an early lead.
Amajita showed resilience and were handed a lifeline early in the second half when a penalty was awarded. Though the initial penalty was saved, it was ordered to be retaken, and Mfundo Vilakazi made no mistake on his second attempt to level the score. However, Colombia responded immediately. Neyser Villareal opened his tournament account with a stunning right-footed strike from another Perea assist to restore the lead. He later completed his brace with a composed finish, sealing a quarter-final berth for the Coffee Growers, who will now face Spain.
The dual defeats signal the end of the road for the African continent at this year’s tournament, leaving the teams to focus on preparations for future youth competitions
