Japan U20 vs South Korea U20 Predictions

Having gone through the group stages without tasting defeat, Japan’s under-20’s ought to come into this game full of confidence, though much of the same can be said for the young South Koreans, who qualified for the last-16 thanks to an impressive win against Argentina last time out.

The Japanese certainly didn’t turn many heads during the groups; they weren’t amazingly expansive, nor did they dominate games, though they were solid in all areas and ultimately, hard to beat. On match-day one against Ecuador, Kageyama Masanaga’s young side didn’t offer a great deal going forward, as they posted just 0.96 expected goals for, while they also struggled to create more than their opponents, as they shipped 1.35, though they stood firm and were not beaten. Since then, Japan have improved at both ends of the pitch; they bettered both Mexico and Italy in terms of expected goals, while they’ve scored three goals and have conceded none since drawing with the Ecuadorians first time out.

South Korea also started the tournament off by delivering a somewhat underwhelming effort, as they were beaten 1-0 by Portugal. Since then, Chung Jung-Yong’s youngsters have improved. They looked solid when grinding out a 1-0 win against South Africa on match-day two, while they delivered a pleasing counter-attacking performance against Group F winners Argentina last time out. Not only did their win against Argentina highlight the fact that South Korea’s current U20 crop is effective on the break, but it also showed us that they’re capable of creating high-quality scoring chances against top opposition.

If we look at the efforts of both at this tournament so far, it’s probably fair to say that there’s not too much between them. Both have looked useful in possession, while neither have looked as if they’re likely to take a battering. From a defensive point of view, the Japanese appear to be slightly sturdier than Tuesday’s opponents, though it is the Koreans that have offered slightly more in terms of a cutting edge and end-product. Japan created plenty against the Italians last time out, though their finishing left plenty to be desired. In contrast, South Korea looked very good against the Argentinians, as they polished off a couple of swift attacking moves by adding excellent finishes.

In the betting, South Korea make a reasonable amount of appeal at the current odds. Having looked strong when beating Argentina last time out, Jung-Yong’s side really ought to be a tad shorter, so backing them to emerge victorious offers punters a slither of value.