Knockout Stage Set for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2024 with Heavyweights, Debutants in Action

Posted : 11 September 2024

The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia 2024 has moved into its knockout stage, with 16 teams remaining from the original 24. Among them are the five nations that have previously won the tournament: Spain, Japan, Korea DPR, Germany, and the USA. Spain, Japan, and Korea DPR particularly stood out in the group stage, advancing with flawless performances. Meanwhile, debutant teams like Austria and Cameroon have also made it to the knockout rounds, bringing some fresh excitement to the tournament.

In terms of confederation representation, UEFA leads with five teams advancing, while Asia, Concacaf, and CONMEBOL each have three teams still in contention. Africa has two representatives, including Cameroon, which has emerged as a promising underdog. The clash between Brazil and Cameroon is a notable matchup, with Brazil dominating their group stage, having not conceded any goals and featuring top scorer Vendito. However, Cameroon, with Naomi Eto leading their offense, could pose a tough challenge in their first-ever knockout match at this tournament.

Spain, the defending champions, are set to face Canada in Cali. Spain won all their group games convincingly, while Canada finished third in a tough group that included Brazil and France. Canada’s key player, Annabelle Chukwu, has been a standout, but the defensive strength of Spain, which has yet to concede a goal, might make this a closely contested match. Canada will need to improve their defensive record if they hope to challenge the reigning champions.

Another highly anticipated match is the Concacaf rivalry between Mexico and the USA in Bogota. Mexico, who finished second in their group, narrowly lost to Colombia but had previously beaten the USA in the Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship final. The USA, three-time champions at this level, are back in the knockout stage for the first time since 2016 and will be looking to exact revenge for their earlier defeat.

Colombia, the host nation, will take on Korea Republic in Cali. The Colombians have been playing across several cities, and now the "home of women's football" in the country is ready to host their clash with Korea Republic. Korea’s shock win over three-time champions Germany has given them momentum, and they are expected to give Colombia a tough fight, having not conceded a goal in their previous U-20 World Cup matches against South American teams.

Players and coaches have expressed optimism and determination ahead of the knockout stage. Spain’s Lucia Moral emphasized the team's focus on maintaining their style, while USA defender Savannah King relished the opportunity to face Mexico in a high-stakes match. Meanwhile, Korea Republic coach Park Younjeong highlighted the team's drive to prove themselves in the knockout stage, as they aim to continue their impressive run in the tournament.

Knockout Stage Set for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2024 with Heavyweights, Debutants in Action

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