Neither Italy U20 nor Uruguay U20 have ever won the U20 World Cup, so both are determined for the final. Uruguay U20 has the advantage as 80% of the audience at La Plata Stadium are fans from their home country.

The joy of Uruguay U20 players when scoring against Italy U20. Photo: Getty

Uruguay U20 took the initiative and put a lot of pressure on Italy U20. They fired 4 shots in the first 20 minutes even though Italy U20 controlled the ball up to 63%. In the 22nd minute, Uruguay U20 player Duarte headed the ball dangerously but goalkeeper Desplanches made a miraculous save. Uruguay U20 team showed danger on both wings, while Italy U20 was almost stuck in finding a way into the opponent's goal.

In the second half, U20 Uruguay was the team that controlled the game. Coach Marcelo Broli's students launched many diverse attacks, causing the U20 Italy goal to shake many times. In the 80th minute, U20 Italy player Prati received a direct red card after a malicious tackle on an opponent. However, after consulting VAR, the referee only gave him a yellow card.

Playing better, it was not until the 86th minute that the Uruguay U20 team converted the opportunity into a goal. From a corner kick on the right wing, the ball bounced and Luciano Rodriguez seized the opportunity to head the ball close to the goal, defeating the Italy U20 goalkeeper.

Uruguay U20 players celebrate winning the 2023 U20 World Cup. Photo: The Canadian Press

In the remaining minutes, despite great efforts, U20 Italy could not score. In the end, U20 Uruguay defeated U20 Italy 1-0 to win the 2023 U20 World Cup. This is the first time U20 Uruguay has won the U20 World Cup after two runner-up finishes in 1997 and 2013.

HOAI PHUONG