The South American Championship U20, called the Sudamericano U20, is currently taking place at Ecuador (18 January-11 February). During the Matchday 5 of the final round, Uruguay have secured the title while Brazil will not feature in the upcoming World Cup U20 as they were held to a draw by Colombia.
Final group : Uruguay 12 pts, Ecuador 7 pts, Venezuela 7 pts, Argentina 7 pts, Brazil 6 pts, Colombia 2 pts.
Argentina were in big danger before their last game. However, the Albiceleste earned a crucial 2-0 win over Venezuela and secured their spot for the next World Cup U20. The Argentinians can thank the hero Lautaro Martinez who netted a brace. The Racing Club forward finished as the joint top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals.
To qualify for the World Cup, Argentina needed a win and were hoping that Brazil get no more than a draw in the same time. This is exactly what happened as Brazil were held to a draw by Colombia (0-0). The Fluminense starlet Richarlison can regret his lack of efficiency as he missed two big chances in the first half. The Brazilians will watch the next World Cup U20 on the TV…
Few hours later, Uruguay beat hosts Ecuador (2-1) to claim the Sudamericano title ! The young striker Joaquin Ardaiz, who wasn’t scored a single goal before this game, netted a brace : the Danubio player scored the opener after 5 minutes, then he doubled the lead after 20 minuts. In the second half, Hernan Lino has reduced the deficit for Ecuador but it wasn’t enough to reverse the situation.
Impressive throughout the competition, Uruguay earned a deserved title !
Nations qualified for the World Cup 20 : Uruguay, Ecuador, Venezuela, Argentina
Top scorers of the competition : Lautaro Martinez (Argentina), Macnelly Torres (Argentina), Rodrigo Amaral (Uruguay) et Bryan Cabezas (Ecuador) – 5 buts
Amayes Brahmi - Follow @AmayesB
Credits Photo : CONMEBOL