U-20 World Cup: Argentina boss Mascherano wary of Flying Eagles threat

Argentina coach, Javier Mascherano has cautioned his players as they prepare to face the Flying Eagles in the round of 16 clash at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Mascherano, a Barcelona legend says his players must give their best against the Flying Eagles.

Both sides will clash for a place in the quarter-finals in San Juan on Wednesday night.

The young Les Albiceleste will be the favorites to seal a place in the quarter-finals having won all their group games.'

Mascherano is however wary of the threat posed by their opponent who he described as a “strong rival.

“Nigeria is a strong rival, especially physically. We know the record they have in the competition. They have done well in the past,” the former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder told ESPN

“We have analyzed them, you have to be very careful with your direct play, with your players in the middle forward and above all, in their transitions because they can do a lot of damage.”

The winner will face Ecuador or South Korea in the last eight.