The Flying Eagles of Nigeria will face the daunting task of playing the hosts of the FIFA U20 World Cup, Argentina, in the round of 16 stage.

Despite clinching six points from their opening three games, Nigeria finished third on goal difference and will now face a familiar foe, Argentina.

Here are three talking points ahead of the game at the San Juan Stadium.

Unlucky Flying Eagles

The World Cup draws have not been kind to the Flying Eagles, at the start of the competition, they were also drawn alongside Brazil and Italy.

Despite winning two of their three games, and qualifying for the round of 16 at the FIFA U20 World Cup, Nigeria will face the toughest of the available options.

Despite competing due to hosting rights, Argentina have shown that they belong in the tournament and have done so ruthlessly.

Argentina has scored 10 goals in this tournament, conceding only one, and it’s one of the most potent sides in the competition.

Home advantage may work in their favor, but should the Flying Eagles not get carried away, the game will be very intriguing.

Back to Problem No. 1

After the toothless display by Nigeria against Brazil, Coach Ladan Bosso is back to the problem of the team not being able to convert chances.

The reason they are to face Argentina is due to their low conversion rate compared to Italy and Brazil who scored three and six goals respectively against the Dominican Republic.

For all the talks of Los Cebollitas being able to score goals, their defence don’t get credit, but they’ve only let in one goal all tournament.

It shows they are defensively solid but the reality is that the Flying Eagles are stronger than all three opponents they have faced at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup.

Nigeria will see chances against Argentina, the question is, will the boys convert those chances?

The Flying Eagles have managed to score four goals in the tournament; hitting 2 goals past Italy and the Dominican Republic, and when they could have scored against Brazil the post was not so kind.

Argentina won’t be easy and to win a match in 90 minutes you have to score goals.

Keep it tight at the back

Brazil exposed the weaknesses in the team’s defense and revealed a lack of commitment from the team.

Before Brazil scored their first goal, they had exposed Nigeria’s defense on numerous occasions as the team chose to keep a high line and defend thinly at the back.

Players were seen walking back when the team was defending a counter-attack, as the Brazilians had different instances where they outnumbered the Flying Eagles’ defense.

The game against Argentina could be similar, and Coach Ladan Bosso will have to demand commitment from his team.

To beat Argentina, they will have to take their chances and defend like crazy.