U-20 World Cup: playoff pairs, big intrigue and favorites

The group stage of the U-20 World Cup has ended, and the 16 teams that advanced to the playoffs have been determined. At the tournament in Chile, Japan, Ukraine, Morocco, Argentina, USA, Colombia, Chile, Paraguay, Mexico, Italy, South Africa, Norway, France, Nigeria, South Korea, and Spain qualified for the next stage.

The continental distribution is also noteworthy: five representatives from Europe (Spain, France, Italy, Ukraine, Norway) came from the strong quartet, and four teams from South America (Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay, Chile) are in the playoffs. Africa (Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa) and Asia (Japan, South Korea) also spoke, and the USA and Mexico joined from CONCACAF.

- Chile - Mexico

- Argentina - Nigeria

- Ukraine - Spain

- Colombia - South Africa

- USA - Italy

- Morocco - South Korea

- Paraguay - Norway

- Japan - France

The intrigue of big names and interesting clashes is strong: for example, in the Japan-France duel, technical and fast football clash with tactical intelligence, while in the Argentina-Nigeria match, a game with a harsh character and high tempo is expected. In the Ukrainian-Spanish pair, the struggle between ball control and discipline intensifies, while the US-Italy pair tests the criteria of pressing and defensive balance.

It's natural that the playoff stage of the competition will be heated up with different styles, young talents, and "clash" moments that will resolve the situation in an instant. As a reminder, the U-20 World Cup is taking place in Chile. Fans are waiting for mature mastery, surprises, and dramatic games.