South Korea v Nigeria | Quarter Final | FIFA U-20 World Cup Argentina 2023™ | Live stream

Preview: South Korea Under-20s vs. Nigeria Under-20s - A Clash of Non-European and Non-South American Nations at Under-20 World Cup

In an exciting quarter-final showdown, South Korea Under-20s will face Nigeria Under-20s at Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades. These two teams are the only non-European and non-South American nations left in the competition, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated encounter.

South Korea's journey at the Under-20 World Cup began steadily, aiming to improve on their runner-up finish in the 2019 edition against Ukraine. They remained unbeaten in the group stage matches against Gambia, France, and Honduras but managed to secure only one victory. However, they signaled their intent in the Round of 16 clash against Ecuador, with Lee Young-jun and Bae Joon-ho finding the back of the net within the opening 20 minutes. Although Ecuador pulled one back before halftime, Choi Seok-hyeon's header restored South Korea's two-goal lead, ultimately sealing their progression despite a late consolation goal from Ecuador.

South Korea has showcased both efficient attacking prowess and vulnerability in defense throughout the tournament, scoring seven goals while conceding six. Meanwhile, Nigeria produced a stunning upset in the Round of 16, defeating the host nation Argentina 2-0. The Nigerian team demonstrated resilience and composure, absorbing relentless pressure before unleashing two decisive second-half goals through Ibrahim Beji Muhammad and Rilwanu Sarki. Their well-organized defense frustrated Argentina, denying them any breakthrough despite their dominance in possession and numerous attempts on goal.

Nigeria's impressive victory comes after a 2-0 defeat to Brazil in their final group stage match. Many expected them to struggle against the formidable Argentine side, but Ladan Bosso's team proved their mettle and secured their first quarter-final appearance since 2011. It marks a significant achievement for the Flying Eagles, who had experienced three consecutive exits in the Round of 16 in previous editions. However, they still seek their first Under-20 World Cup title, having finished as runners-up twice in the past.

South Korea and Nigeria have crossed paths before in past tournaments, creating a sense of rivalry between the two nations. South Korea emerged victorious with a 2-1 win in the group stage clash of the 2005 edition, but Nigeria avenged that defeat with a 1-0 triumph in 2013. This quarter-final clash will provide an opportunity for one of these teams to claim their third victory in their head-to-head encounters and secure a spot in the semi-finals, where they would face either Colombia or Italy.

The clash between South Korea and Nigeria promises to be an enthralling battle between two talented sides. Both teams have defied expectations and have the chance to make history by progressing further in the tournament. The match is set to showcase the passion, determination, and skill of these young players as they vie for a place among the world's elite in Under-20 football. Football enthusiasts eagerly await this exciting encounter as the journey towards crowning the Under-20 World Cup champion continues.