U-20 World Cup: Teams to watch

With FIFA’s U-20 World Cup about to kick off here in Cairo, here is Bikya Masr’s pick of the top teams in the tournament (in alphabetical order):
Brazil – Brazil’s record at U-20 level is unmatched by any other team in the tournament (only Argentina have won more titles). Since the first installment of the U-20 world championship, Brazil have claimed 4 titles, finished in the top three on 9 occasions and have never been knocked out in the first round. Brazil, as ever, have a wealth of talent on which to draw, although in spite of their technical superiority Brazil failed to make it to the final 16 in Canada two years ago – a record they will be looking to set straight in Egypt.
One to watch: Picking out just one of Brazil’s exciting talent (who will invariably be dubbed the next Kaka/Robinho/Romario etc) is difficult, but Gremio’s left footed midfielder Douglas Costa will be looking to make a big impact at this tournament to show the world that he has what it takes to be the next big thing. He’s strong, pacey and has more than a trick or two up his sleeve, the Brazil team will be looking to get the ball to this guy whenever possible.
Germany – Hailed in some corners as potential champions after dominating in the European U-19 tournament 12 months ago, the German squad is being labeled Germany’s “Golden Generation”. The German squad is known for its physical presence, often taking the game to their opponents, attacking with pace and guile. This team will be keen to continue their recent good form and may just have what it takes to go all the way.
One to watch: Germany’s flair player is lightning fast striker Richard Sukuta-Pasu, but their key man is hard working midfielder Lars Bender, whose energy and passing range drive the German attack. He also has tackling ability and does a good job at breaking up the opposition’s play.
Ghana – The “Black Satellites” (who knows what that nickname is about?) come into the tournament as African champions, but after an eight year absence from the U-20 World Cup. In their last outing in 2001 they were runners up to Argentina, beating Brazil en route to the final, so have an impressive pedigree at this level. Expect the Ghanaian team to be physically strong, and with good technique. Their main challenge will be keeping a tight defense in a tough group which also includes England and Uruguay, but this Ghana team could surprise a few of the big teams.
One to watch: Ransford Osei finished the African U-20 Championship as top scorer, and was also awarded Player of the Tournament. He has good movement and a keen eye for goal, and should add to his impressive haul of 7 goals in just 6 games at U-20 level.
Italy – The Italians finished as runners up to Germany in the European U-19 Championship last year, and are being hotly tipped to go one step further in Egypt. Their strength stems from a typically stubborn Italian defense, and quick counter-attacking football. The Azzurini also have the benefit of the vast experience that many of the players have, as many of the squad play for top-class Serie A teams. Italy should make it through a tricky group, and a good performance against a strong Paraguayan team would be an excellent basis for an assault on the title.
One to watch: Gifted central defender Michelangelo Albertazzi is a key part of both Italy and AC Milan’s U-20 squads, and will play a vital role in marshaling the Italian back four in Egypt.
Egypt – Egypt will hope that the home crowd support will help them transform from being an outside chance into serious title contenders. Egypt had an indifferent African U-20 tournament in Rwanda, being knocked out before the quarter final stage, and their coach will be hoping they have learned a few lessons. If Egypt can benefit from the home crowd, maintain their tactical discipline and make it through a difficult group featuring both Italy and Paraguay, they could do well in this tournament. Those are three big “if”s though.
One to watch: Home crowd favorite Mohammed Talaat plays for local giants Al-Ahly, and much of Egypt’s expectation lays on the shoulders of this young striker – although he seems to thrive under pressure, scoring a crucial goal at the back end of last season that secured the league title for Ahly.
England – Having a spectacularly unsuccessful record at previous U-20 World Championships – England’s best place finishes are 3rd and 4th – this England side will be looking to set the record straight with a good run in Egypt. Although the squad lacks household names, many of the players are signed to top Premiership clubs and the team had an impressive qualifying campaign, and has beaten Germany and the Netherlands in the last 12 months. Hampered by key players not being released from clubs, the squad has a chance to show its potential, and could be a good bet for a top 4 finish.
One to watch: Midfielder Michael Woods is the fourth-youngest player ever to play for Chelsea, where he made his first team debut at just 16, and Woods experience will be key to helping this England side move into the latter stages of the tournament.
Spain – European Champions and world ranked #1 at senior level, Spain’s U-20s will want to replicate the success of their senior colleagues. Champions in 1999 this team comes into the tournament on the back of a disappointing qualifying campaign, and with star striker Bojan Krkic missing through injury. The team retains, however, plenty of creative options in midfield and will score plenty of goals throughout the tournament.
One to watch: Goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo was snapped up by Atlético Madrid over the summer, and was a key part of the Spanish U-17 side that won the European Championship two years ago. Safe hands with plenty of experience, also good in a penalty shoot out.
BM