FIFA U-20 World Cup: Nigeria Brace for Argentina Duel, Morocco Challenge Korea as Egypt Crash Out

Three African teams advanced to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Round of 16, setting up intriguing knockout clashes in Chile.

African teams have learned their opponents en route to qualifying for the last eight of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup taking place in Chile. 

Among them, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles face a daunting challenge against six-time champions Argentina in the Round of 16, while Morocco prepare for a tricky clash against Asian giants South Korea.

The Nigerians booked their spot in the knockout phase after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Colombia in Talca — a result that saw them advance as one of the best third-placed teams. 

It was a nervy encounter that tested the resolve of Aliyu Zubairu’s side, who had earlier recorded a thrilling 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia. The team needed just a point from their final group game, and despite falling behind, they showed grit and discipline to claw their way back.

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After a cagey first half at the Estadio Fiscal, Colombia drew first blood in the 51st minute when Kener Gonzalez’s strike beat goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt. 

The South Americans looked set to secure all three points, but Nigeria never stopped pressing forward. Their relentless efforts saw them hit the woodwork three times, while Colombian shot-stopper Jordan Garcia pulled off a string of fine saves to keep his side in front.

Time was running out but Flying Eagles were finally rewarded for their persistence. A VAR review confirmed that defender Elkin Rivero handled a goal-bound effort from Tahir Maigana, and the referee pointed to the spot. Team captain Daniel Bameyi stepped up confidently and sent Garcia the wrong way to level matters, ensuring Nigeria’s progression to the knockout stage.

Coach Aliyu Zubairu praised his players for their resilience and tactical maturity. “It wasn’t easy but we stood our ground and were proactive,” Zubairu said after the match. “We knew they are physically strong and good on the ball, so we tried to deny them passing lanes. All we wanted was to qualify, and now we’ll focus on Argentina.”

Flying Eagles Face Familiar Foe in Argentina

Nigeria’s next test comes against familiar rivals Argentina — a nation they have faced multiple times at youth level. 

The South Americans topped Group D with three straight wins, displaying attacking flair and defensive stability. The highly anticipated encounter will take place on Wednesday evening at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago. The winner will advance to face either hosts Chile or Mexico in the quarter-finals.

Elsewhere, Morocco, who finished top of Group C, will take on South Korea at Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua. The North Africans have impressed with their tactical organization and swift counterattacks, emerging as one of the dark horses of the tournament. Their meeting with the disciplined Koreans promises to be an intriguing tactical battle.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s campaign ended in disappointment despite a spirited final performance. The Young Pharaohs edged hosts Chile in their last group game but failed to accumulate enough points to qualify for the Round of 16. 

It was a bittersweet exit for the team, who showed glimpses of brilliance but lacked consistency in key moments.

Ghana remain the only African team to have lifted the U-20 World Cup trophy, a feat achieved in 2009 when Andre Ayew led the Black Satellites to glory in Egypt.