FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025: Knockout Stage Begins to Take Shape
Another dramatic day at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 saw four more teams secure their place in the Round of 16, with surprises, tension, and goals galore across Groups A and B.
Group A: Japan Dominate, Chile Squeeze Through on Fair Play
Japan continued their impressive run with a commanding 3-0 victory over New Zealand, securing top spot in the group and underlining their title credentials. Goals and clean sheets are becoming a habit for the young Samurai Blue.
In the group’s other clash, Chile suffered a last-gasp 2-1 defeat to Egypt, but still managed to edge into the knockout phase – thanks to the FIFA fair play rule. With both sides level on points and goal difference, Chile progressed due to receiving fewer yellow cards. Meanwhile, Egypt, who finished third, remain in contention for a spot in the last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.
Group B: Ukraine Top the Group, Korea Republic Still in the Hunt
Ukraine delivered a strong performance to top Group B after a tightly contested 2-1 win over Paraguay. Goals from Derkach and Ponomarenko ensured they head into the knockout stage with momentum, despite a spirited Paraguayan side who also advanced as runners-up.
Korea Republic kept their tournament dreams alive with a gutsy 2-1 victory over Panama. Though third in the group, the Koreans still have a chance to qualify depending on results in the remaining groups. Panama, meanwhile, bow out after a disappointing campaign.
Who’s Already Through?
With Group A and B now settled, here are the teams already through to the Round of 16:
- Japan
- Chile
- Ukraine
- Paraguay
They join early qualifiers Morocco, Argentina, Italy, and USA, who had already sealed their spots after dominant group stage performances.
Matchday Recap – October 3, 2025
Panama 1–2 Korea Republic
Goals: Kim Hyun-min (24'), Walder (52'), Shin Min-ha (58')
Bookings: Herbert D. (32') – Son Seong-min (8'), Kim Tae-won (28')
Ukraine 2–1 Paraguay
Goals: Derkach M. (46'), Mino (69'), Ponomarenko M. (80')
Bookings: Panchenko M. (82') – Balbuena (67'), Cáceres (71')
Egypt 2–1 Chile
New Zealand 0–3 Japan
Stay tuned for more coverage as the group stage nears its thrilling conclusion.
