In a rematch of the U20 World Cup from 2005, the Flying Eagles of Nigeria were given a challenging matchup against hosts Argentina in the round of 16, thesportsbay.com reports.
The Flying Eagles, who had won their first two World Cup games, fell to third place in Group D behind Italy and the young Selecao on goal differential after losing 2-0 to Brazil in their last group stage match.
Despite placing third, Nigeria nonetheless advanced to the next round because, with six points, they were one of the four best losers who were assured a spot.
Although they were the strongest team outside of the top two automatic qualifiers, they received one of the most difficult draws in the second round of the competition as compensation for their strong start at the World Cup.
Despite earning six of a possible nine points during the group stage—same as Brazil and Italy, who also earned six points in Group D—the Nigerians were unfortunate to only qualify in third place.
On the other side, Argentina took first place in group A after winning all three of its games against Uzbekistan, New Zealand, and Guatemala.
The Albiceleste might be harmed by Argentina’s relatively simple group because Nigeria’s group has put them to the test and better prepared them for the second round.
The match will take place on Wednesday, May 31, at 6 p.m. Nigerian time. It will be the first competitive U20 encounter between Argentina and Nigeria since the 2005 championship game.
