Argentina Advances to U-20 South American Championship Second Round

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — The Argentine national U-20 football team has secured a spot in the second round of the South American Championship with a game to spare. Under the guidance of coach Diego Placente, Argentina remains unbeaten in Group B, boasting seven points from three matches.

The Albiceleste clinched their advancement after Brazil defeated Ecuador 3-2 on Thursday, eliminating Ecuador’s chances of overtaking Argentina in the group standings. Argentina previously routed Brazil 6-0, edged Bolivia 1-0, and drew 1-1 with Colombia. Their final group-stage match against Ecuador on Saturday will determine whether they finish as group leaders.

Argentina’s dominance in the tournament has been highlighted by standout performances, including Claudio Echeverri, who has scored three goals so far. Placente’s squad will aim to secure the top spot in Group B, which could be aided by Brazil’s upcoming match against Colombia, also tied with seven points.

In Group A, Uruguay leads with nine points after defeating Peru 2-0, while Paraguay and Chile, both with six points, have also advanced. The second phase of the tournament, beginning February 4, will feature the top six teams competing for four direct qualification spots to the U-20 World Cup, with Chile guaranteed a fifth spot as the host nation.

The match between Argentina and Ecuador will kick off at 6 p.m. Argentina time on Saturday at the Metropolitano de Cabudare Stadium. Simultaneously, Brazil will face Colombia in a crucial match that could influence the final group standings.