The seven-time African champions are chasing their first-ever title in the competition, but they must first navigate past a South American side that has claimed the world title a record six times.
Unlike the Argentines, who topped Group D with victories in all their matches, Aliyu Zubairu’s team advanced as one of the best third-placed sides.
Nonetheless, the Sunshine Stars legend believes the Flying Eagles have the quality to challenge Diego Placente’s side.
"This game no doubt will be our (Nigeria’s) toughest match yet in the competition, given Argentina’s pedigree at this level," Abe told Flashscore.com.
"They (Argentina) are the most successful team in the tournament’s history and currently in Chile they are making a big statement by winning all their group stage matches convincingly to top their section.
"In contrast, the Flying Eagles advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams. While it might seem early to face such formidable opposition, the reality is that to be the best, you must beat the best.
"The odds may be stacked against the Nigerian side, but that doesn’t rule out their chances of progressing, as football is full of surprises.
"In fact, this fixture could bring out their best performance yet, as there’s no second chance; a defeat would mean an early exit from the tournament."
Wednesday’s encounter is a repeat of the 2023 U-20 World Cup Round of 16 clash. In that tournament, Nigeria, who advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after the group stage, were drawn against hosts Argentina.
Despite the South Americans being overwhelming favourites, they were stunned 2-0 at the Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in San Juan, thanks to second-half goals from Ibrahim Beji Muhammad and Rilwanu Sarki.
How Nigeria can overcome Argentina
Abe represented Nigeria at the 2009 U-20 World Cup in Egypt, where Samson Siasia’s team advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed sides before bowing out with a 3-2 defeat to Germany.
Aware that the Argentines will be out for revenge, he offered insight into what his compatriots must do to get the job done.
"I’m confident the Flying Eagles understand the magnitude of the challenge ahead, but if they hope to reach the quarter-finals, they must be clinical in front of goal," the NPFL legend continued.
"Taking their chances will be vital, and they must avoid careless turnovers, as any mistake could prove costly.
"Like many South American teams, Argentina are aggressive going forward, so our defenders need to stay disciplined and refrain from conceding fouls in dangerous areas, as they could easily be punished from set pieces.
"I don’t expect a high-scoring affair, as both sides are likely to approach the match with caution. However, the Flying Eagles’ ability to remain composed under pressure and capitalise on key moments could ultimately decide the outcome of what promises to be a tightly contested encounter."
Abe scores flying eagles high amid criticism
Despite the wave of criticism directed at coach Zubairu’s team, Abe has given the boys a pass mark, saying they look like a side that will continue to improve with each game.
He added: "In my honest opinion, they haven’t done badly. Having played in this tournament myself, I understand the weight of expectation they face to deliver results.
"However, it’s important to remember that the U-20 World Cup is primarily an age-grade competition designed to nurture and discover future talents, not just to win at all costs.
"Our focus should be on their development and growth, allowing them to express themselves freely and gain the experience needed to become the stars of tomorrow."
A win for Nigeria would book them a quarter-final showdown with Mexico, who overpowered tournament hosts Chile in the Round of 16.