Italy U20 vs Japan U20 Predictions

Can Italy round off the group stage with a 100% record at the Under 20 World Cup? We’ve seen the Azzurri struggle on the international stage over the years – most notably missing out in Russia last summer. However, there’s a booming youth set up in Italy, which could lead them back to the top of the world. Their Under 20 side are making strides this summer with two wins from two, which has put them into the next round. However, will they be able to see off Japan to progress?

With their place in the next round wrapped up, it will be interesting to see the approach the Italians take this week. They are likely to make a few changes, given that a point is all they need to move into the next round. Rotating makes sense for Italy, as they look to take glory in Poland. They’ve never even made the final of this competition since it was revamped in 2007, which isn’t a great record for a nation like Italy. However, they did finish third at the last tournament in 2017, so they’ll have an eye on going all the way.

Japan have been a potential football superpower for years, but they’ve never bettered their run to the final in 1999. While Japan are regulars at the senior World Cup, they don’t usually have a major impact on this competition. However, the Japanese are on course to make the next round, with four points to their name they are basically through. They need a point to make sure of second, but a victory could send them through in first place in this group.

This Italy side doesn’t quite match the stereotypical defensive style which we expect from Italian sides. They conceded to Mexico in their opener, while their 1-0 win over Ecuador last time out was their first clean sheet in eight games. There’s certainly a vulnerability in their side which can be exposed, while that’s unlikely to be improved by rotation for their final group game.

Meanwhile, Japan have packed an attacking threat at this tournament so far. They’ve scored in both games, including putting three past Mexico in their last outing. We can see them pushing for top spot here, while they should test this Italian defence. We expect both teams to get forward and find the net, so we’re backing both teams to score in this one, along with a 1-1 draw to supply the point which both teams need.