The first few teams could book their places in the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2017 Round of 16 on the second matchday in Groups A and B.

Hosts Korea Republic began their campaign as strongly as England, with both sides winning their opening encounters 3-0. While another triumph for the duo will secure their spots in the knockout stages, Argentina and Guinea will do everything in their power to stop them.

A similar situation is unfolding in Group B, where Venezuela and Mexico can also progress to the next round with their second victory in two games. The Mexicans will face a stiff challenge from Germany, while Venezuela – who delivered a formidable performance against their European rivals – will need to be wary of Vanuatu. The Oceanian debutants were only defeated by a last-minute goal from Mexico after a courageous display.

The gamesGroup A: England – Guinea | Korea Republic – Argentina Group B: Venezuela – Vanuatu | Mexico – Germany

What you need to know

1

England delivered a masterclass in efficiency in their opening match. The Young Lions registered three shots on target at the Argentinian goal – and scored three times. Manager Paul Simpson will be hoping for the same attacking ruthlessness against Guinea, who are still waiting for their first FIFA U-20 World Cup goal.

2

Argentina’s display against England was anything but efficient. Despite creating an incredible 22 shots on goal, every one of the South Americans’ efforts was thwarted by Young Lions goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, the crossbar or their own imprecision. Meanwhile, the hosts go into this match full of confidence after a convincing display in their opener and can once again build on the frenetic home support that created such a fantastic atmosphere in their encounter with Guinea.

3

Germany could draw encouragement from the competition’s past ahead of their duel with Mexico. The Europeans recorded a 1-0 win when the two sides met in Australia in 1981 at what was then called the FIFA World Youth Championship and went on to lift the trophy.

4

Venezuela faced opponents from Oceania the last time they featured at a U-20 World Cup in 2009. The South Americans defeated Tahiti 8-0 that year to record the second-highest victory in the history of the competition.

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