Neither the Italy U20 nor the Uruguay U20 team has ever won the U20 World Cup, so both are very determined for the final. The Uruguay U20 team has an advantage as 80% of the spectators at the La Plata stadium are fans from their home country.

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

Uruguay U20 started proactively and put a lot of pressure on Italy U20. They unleashed 4 shots in the first 20 minutes despite Italy U20 controlling 63% of the ball. In the 22nd minute, Uruguay U20's Duarte had a dangerous header, but goalkeeper Desplanches made a spectacular save. Uruguay U20 proved dangerous on both flanks, while Italy U20 were almost completely ineffective in finding a way to score.

In the second half, Uruguay U20 took control of the game. Coach Marcelo Broli's players launched a variety of attacking moves, causing the Italy U20 goal to be threatened several times. In the 80th minute, Italy U20 player Prati received a direct red card after a malicious tackle on an opponent. However, after consulting VAR, the referee only issued a yellow card.

Despite playing better, the Uruguay U20 team only converted a chance into a goal in the 86th minute. From a corner kick on the right wing, the ball bounced awkwardly and Luciano Rodriguez seized the opportunity to head the ball into the net from close range, beating the Italy U20 goalkeeper.

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

In the remaining minutes, despite their best efforts, the Italian U20 team could not score. Ultimately, Uruguay U20 defeated Italy U20 1-0 to win the 2023 U20 World Cup. This marks Uruguay U20's first U20 World Cup title after finishing as runners-up twice in 1997 and 2013.

HOAI PHUONG