FIFA U20 WORLD CUP 2025 CHILE

U-20 World Cup Intensifies With Knockout Rounds

The U-20 World Cup has reached its knockout phase after a gripping final round of group-stage matches filled with drama, late twists and new storylines.

In Group E, the United States fell 2–1 to a spirited South Africa side in a game that tested the Americans’ defensive composure. Noah Cobb gave the U.S. an early lead in the 13th minute with a towering header off a free kick, but momentum shifted quickly when Joshua Wynder accidentally redirected the ball into his own net just four minutes later. South Africa completed the turnaround right before halftime, as Gomolemo Kekana buried a low strike in stoppage time (45+2). Despite the loss, the U.S. finished atop Group E thanks to their previous results and will face Italy in a high-profile Round of 16 clash on Thursday, Sept. 9.

Elsewhere, Chile endured heartbreak in a chaotic 2–1 defeat to Egypt, but the South Americans still advanced as runners-up behind a flawless Japan, who collected nine points in Group A. Chile’s resilience was rewarded with a Round of 16 matchup against Mexico, who themselves came alive late in the group stage. Mexico went unbeaten with two draws and sealed progression after a crucial victory against Morocco, with emerging star Gilberto Mora calmly converting from the spot to secure the win. Mora’s composure and technical polish have drawn attention from scouts across Europe, cementing his status as one of the top young prospects of the tournament.

Group C delivered the first major shock of the World Cup, as Spain advanced as one of the best third-placed teams while Brazil, the reigning South American champion, was eliminated — a stunning outcome that reverberated across the youth football landscape. In Group B, Ukraine and Paraguay took the top two spots, while South Korea also slipped through as one of the best third-place finishers after a series of tight, tactical matches.

In Group D, Argentina looked solid and efficient, defeating Italy 1–0 thanks to a goal from Dylan Gorosito, the dynamic right back from Boca Juniors, whose overlapping runs have become a key feature of Argentina’s attack. Australia also ended on a positive note with a 3–1 win over Cuba, but it wasn’t enough to progress. Argentina will now face Nigeria in one of the most intriguing Round of 16 fixtures.

Meanwhile in Group E, France dismantled New Caledonia 6–0, but despite the emphatic scoreline, they finished just behind South Africa on goal difference and advanced as a third-place team. They will now take on Japan, setting up a fascinating clash of two technically gifted squads. In Group F, Colombia and Nigeria played to a tense 1–1 draw, ensuring both moved on, while Norway’s hard-fought draw with Saudi Arabia secured them second place in the group.

With all the pieces now in place, the Round of 16 bracket is complete — and as the tournament enters the knockout stage, new heroes are bound to emerge.

SPONSORED BY COLLEGE COACHES SHOWCASE CAMPS

How do players get recruited? Start here.

Every touch, every sprint, every moment you step on the field — someone’s watching. Not just the fans, not just your teammates — but the people who can change your future.

At College Coaches Skills Camp, the stage is real. The competition is real. And the opportunity? Even bigger. Here, the country’s top college coaches gather to see who’s next — the players ready to take their game from promise to performance.

Whether you’re working toward your first college offer or trying to make your mark on the recruiting radar, CCSC puts you where you need to be: in front of the right eyes.

Train. Compete. Get Seen.
Because your future college coach might already be watching.

Use Code: FootyFall25 for a 10% discount at checkout

Young Yanks Turning Heads Abroad

American players continue to make waves across Europe’s top leagues, with several standouts enjoying milestone moments this past weekend.

In Germany, teenage forward Noahkai Banks announced himself on the big stage by scoring his first-ever Bundesliga goal for FC Augsburg, showing composure beyond his years. His sharp movement off the ball and intelligent link-up play were key highlights of his performance.

Across the English Channel, Patrick Agyemang found the net for the first time with Derby County in the Championship, opening his account in style and establishing himself as a reliable attacking option for the club’s promotion push.

At Chelsea, two young Americans — Landon Emenalo (17) and goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina — were named to the senior team’s bench over the weekend. Emenalo, who has represented both England and the United States at the youth level, continues to impress with his technical skill and maturity, while Slonina remains firmly in the mix for future first-team minutes.

Over in Croatia, Rokas Pukštas continued his outstanding form, scoring his fourth goal of the season for Hajduk Split. The 19-year-old midfielder’s late runs into the box and work rate have made him one of the breakout performers in the league.

In the Championship, Haji Wright remains on fire for Coventry City, scoring his eighth goal in nine matches. The U.S. international’s consistency in front of goal has made him one of the most productive forwards in England’s second tier.

At Bayern Leverkusen, German-American winger Montreal Cullbreath received a call-up to the Germany U-19 National Team, after previously representing the U.S. at the U-16 level. It’s a notable step forward for a player with dual-national eligibility and growing interest from both federations.

Leverkusen also saw another milestone, as Max Gordon, a 2010-born defender, made his U-17 debut for the club — a sign of the incredible youth depth in their setup.

Elsewhere, Brenden Aaronson returned to the starting lineup for Leeds United in their Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur, showing flashes of the creativity and energy that once made him a fan favorite at Elland Road.

In Italy, 16-year-old defender Astin Mbaye trained with the AC Milan Primavera for the first time, an important progression for the young center back who continues to attract attention as one of the top defensive prospects of his age group.

Youth Teams Ready For Tour In Spain

This October will be an important month for U.S. youth development, as three Men’s Youth National Teams — the U-20s (2006s), U-19s (2007s), and U-17s (2009s) — will gather simultaneously in Spain for a series of training camps and international friendlies between Oct. 6–15.

Led by interim head coach Rob Valentino, the U-20 MNT will train in San Pedro del Pinatar and play two competitive friendlies — first against Finland U-21 on Oct. 10, followed by Elche B on Oct. 14. Both matches will take place at the Pinatar Arena, a renowned venue for international youth preparation.

The 20-player roster brings together an impressive mix of MLS and European-based talents. Twelve players hail from 10 MLS clubs, including Philadelphia Union and San Jose Earthquakes, with two selections each, while Austin FC, FC Dallas, LA Galaxy, New England Revolution, Portland Timbers, Real Salt Lake, St. Louis City and San Diego FC are all represented.

The U-19s, guided by Gus Teren, will train in Marbella, Spain, as part of their long-term path toward qualification for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

Their schedule includes two key matches: Northern Ireland on Oct. 11 at La Quinta Football Center, and Belgium on Oct. 14 at Banus Football Center.

The youngest of the three groups — the U-17s (2009s) — will also be in Spain, continuing their preparation for the next Concacaf U-17 cycle.

This roster includes several familiar faces from the September camp, highlighting USSF’s intention to build cohesion early. Notably, the 2010-born player from LA Galaxy has earned his first call-up — and with an older age group — signaling how highly the federation rates his potential. Previously, only Robert Turdean and Will Recupero had managed to play with the 2009s as 2010-born prospects, placing this young talent in elite company.