Chijioke Gabriel
As the group stage of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile concluded, top footballing nations stamped their authority while a few surprise exits left fans stunned. From Japan’s flawless run to Argentina’s attacking brilliance and Nigeria’s gritty qualification as one of the best third-placed teams, the competition has lived up to expectations.
Group A: Japan Dominates, Chile Advance
Japan emerged as one of the standout teams of the tournament, finishing the group stage with a perfect record of three wins from three matches. The Asian giants displayed attacking flair and defensive composure, earning a +7 goal difference. Hosts Chile joined them in the knockout stage after a solid showing, while Egypt and New Zealand exited early after struggling to match the pace of the top two sides.
Group B: Ukraine Top, Paraguay and South Korea Progress
Ukraine finished top of Group B after a disciplined display throughout their campaign. Paraguay secured the second automatic spot, while South Korea advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after grinding out important points. Panama, despite spirited performances, bowed out without a win.
Group C: Morocco Turn Heads as Brazil Crash Out
Morocco turned heads in Group C, finishing first in a pool that included heavyweights like Brazil and Spain. Mexico claimed second place, while Spain squeezed through as one of the best third-placed teams. The major shock of the group was Brazil’s early exit — a disappointing outcome for the five-time world champions, who failed to find their rhythm.
Group D: Perfect Argentina, Resilient Italy
In Group D, Argentina showcased their trademark flair and tactical maturity, winning all three matches to top the group with maximum points. Italy followed closely behind after a strong finish, while Australia, despite a final-day victory over Cuba, fell short of qualification. Cuba finished bottom of the group without a point.
Group E: Tight Contest as USA Edge Out France and South Africa, All Three Qualifying
Group E was one of the most competitive, with the USA, South Africa, and France all finishing on six points. The Americans advanced as group leaders on superior goal difference, while South Africa took second. France also qualified for the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed sides. New Caledonia failed to register a point and exited the tournament.
Group F: Colombia and Norway Share Spoils, Nigeria Squeeze Through
Colombia and Norway were inseparable at the top of Group F, both finishing level on points. Nigeria’s Super Eagles U-20 team booked their place in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed finishers after a 1–1 draw with Colombia in their final group game. Saudi Arabia, however, exited without much resistance.
Best Third-Placed Teams and Shock Eliminations
The battle for the best third-placed slots was fierce, with goal difference and head-to-head records determining the lucky qualifiers. Nigeria, South Korea, Spain, and France all made it through. Australia, despite ending their campaign with a win, missed out due to results elsewhere, becoming one of the biggest casualties of the group stage.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament heads into the Round of 16, traditional powerhouses like Argentina and Japan will be expected to continue their dominance, while emerging forces such as Morocco and the USA could spring surprises. Nigeria’s young squad, driven by resilience and speed, remain one of Africa’s last hopes to go deep into the tournament.
The knockout phase promises fireworks, with world football’s next generation set to battle for glory in Chile.