The South American Championship U20, called the Sudamericano U20, is currently taking place at Ecuador (18 January-11 February). During the Matchday 2, the Argentinians confirmed their struggles while Ecuador stole the show.
Group A : Brazil 4 pts, Ecuador 3 pts, Paraguay 1 pt, Chile 1 pt, Colombia 1 pt
After beating Ecuador in their opening game, Brazil were held to a draw by Chile (0-0). Reduced to 10-men following the Jeisson Vargas’ sending-off, the “Roja” earned a draw despite some chances for Brazil : the Sao Paulo starlet David Neres had two big opportunities but didn’t scored. The second game of the group between hosts Ecuador and Colombia was spectacular (4-3) ! Damir Ceter and Jorge Obregon gave to Colombia a two-goal advantage but Ecuador came from behind as Pervis Estupinan, Joel Quintero and Bryan Cabezas netted for the hosts. However, Colombia leveled the scoring thanks to Ever Valencia with fifteen minutes remaining. Eventually, Jordy Caicedo netted the winning goal Ecuador during the injury time with a beautiful header. What a thrilling game !
Group B : Bolivia 3 pts, Argentina 2 pts, Uruguay 2 pts, Venezuela 1 pt, Peru 1 pt
The Bolivians kicked off their campaign by a 2-0 win over Peru. Ronaldo Monteiro netted the opener before the hour mark. Then, Bruno Miranda added another goal with one minute remaining after a beautiful work from Limberg Gutierrez on the left wing ! Bolivia took the lead of the group with this win as Argentina were held to a draw by Uruguay (3-3). The Uruguayan captain Rodrigo Amaral fired a strike into the top corner to give the lead to his side but Marcelo Torres netted the equalizer quickly for Argentina. Then, Nelson De La Cruz scored on a penalty but Marcelo Torres leveled the scoring again for Argentina. Nicolas Schiappacase scored the Uruguay’s third goal with eight minutes remaining and eventually Argentina equalized thanks to an Agustin Rogel own goal.
REMINDER : the top four teams of the final tournament will qualify for the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup
Amayes Brahmi - Follow @AmayesB
Credits Photo : CONMEBOL