Player ratings as Flying Eagles fall flat in defeat to Argentina at the U-20 World Cup in Santiago

The Flying Eagles’ World Cup journey came to an end in painful fashion as Argentina handed them a heavy 4-0 defeat in Santiago, Footynaija.com reports.

It was a night when everything went wrong for Aliyu Zubairu’s side. Poor defending, sloppy midfield play, and a lack of sharpness in attack left the team chasing shadows for most of the match.

Argentina’s dominance was clear from start to finish. They pressed high, moved the ball quickly, and punished every Nigerian mistake.

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Here’s how the Nigerian players rated, with added context from the official match data.

Ebenezer Harcourt – 5.4/10

It was a rough outing for the goalkeeper. Harcourt faced six shots on target and managed just two saves. His distribution was also shaky, completing only 56 percent of his passes.

Amos Ochoche – 5.5/10

Found himself exposed several times down the right as Argentina repeatedly targeted his flank. He rarely got forward, spending most of the game trying to contain the pressure.

Daniel Bameyi – 6.3/10

Tried to marshal the backline but had too much to handle. He made two clearances and one interception, yet couldn’t prevent Argentina’s forwards from finding space in behind.

Aliyu Haruna – 5.9/10

Argentina’s press forced him into hurried decisions, and he could only complete 83 percent of his passes. He worked hard defensively, making three recoveries, but was often bypassed.

Okoro Odinaka – 5.8/10

Had a difficult night at left-back. He misplaced two long passes and failed to track his runner a couple of times. While he tried to push up once or twice, he could only deliver one cross.

Daga Daniel – 6.6/10

One of Nigeria’s most spirited midfielder on the night. Daga covered plenty of ground, completing 81 percent of his passes. He showed composure on the ball in tight spaces but lacked enough support.

Maigana Tahir – 6.1/10

Started well but faded as Argentina took control of the midfield. His first-half pressing was effective, but once Argentina increased their tempo, he couldn’t keep up. Finished with two successful dribbles and zero interception.

Salihu Nasiru – 6.7/10

Offered some energy on the wing and tried to take on defenders whenever he had the chance. He managed twenty-nine touches, three in the opposition box, and zero shots. He lacked support and was substituted midway through the second half.

Archihi Orseer – 6.2/10

Worked hard to track back but rarely made an attacking impact. His work rate stood out more than his final product.

Ayuma Israel – 7.0/10

The brightest of the Flying Eagles. Calm on the ball and full of intent, Ayuma was the only player who consistently tried to carry Nigeria forward. He completed fifty percent of his dribbles and had created one big chance. Even in defeat, he showed quality that suggests a promising future.

Arierhi Kparobo – 6.0/10

A frustrating night for the striker. He was isolated for long stretches, with little service from midfield. Managed just 25 touches all game and two wide shots. Still, his effort in pressing the Argentine defence was commendable.

Substitutes

Abduljelil Kamaldeen – 5.6/10

Came on to add creativity but found no space to operate. Completed 70 percent of his passes but had no real influence in the final third.

Ibrahim Auwal – 6.0/10

Added a bit of drive from midfield but couldn’t change the rhythm. Made no interception and had one – shot off target.

Ekele Emmanuel – 6.3/10

Energetic and combative. He tried to regain control in midfield, winning one duel and showing good awareness under pressure.

Alatan Azuka – 6.0/10

Looked lively after coming on, but Argentina’s defence was already settled. Managed just twelve touches.

Charles Agada – 5.9/10

Had little time to influence the match. Touched the ball only five times after coming on late.