Korea Republic and Ukraine Meet in U-20 World Cup Final

Ukraine: Road to the U-20 World Cup Final

Neither of the countries remaining have ever claimed this title, so history will be made at the weekend. Korea Republic’s highest ever finish was 4th in 1983. Ukraine had never advanced past the round of 16 before last week. One of them will lift the U-20 World Cup trophy in Poland.

Ukraine topped their group with two wins and a draw. They bullied Panama in a 4-1 victory in the first knockout round. Danylo Sikan leads the Ukrainian scoring with four goals including the winner in the 11th minute of their quarterfinal match with Colombia. They have outscored their opponents 10-3 in six matches at this U-20 World Cup. This team has proved very difficult to break down. Italy managed just one shot on target in the semifinal. However, there was a bit of controversy in that match, with Italy having a goal called back due to a foul seen by video assistant referee (VAR).

Defender Denys Popov had spearheaded the Ukrainian back line, and also chipped in three goals of his own. Unfortunately, he picked up two yellow cards in the semifinal and will be suspended for the final. Oleksandr Safronov was subbed on late as a defensive replacement, and will likely start the final in Popov’s place. Serhii Buletsa has three goals and two assists including the goal that sent his country into this final.

Korea Republic: Road to the U-20 World Cup Final

The Korea Republic survived a wild contest with Senegal to reach this point. They trailed twice, pulled back each time, including a Lee Jisol equalizer in the 8th minute of stoppage time. After taking a 3-2 lead in the first half of extra time, they were then the ones pegged back as Senegal scored in the 120th minute to force penalties. It was by far the game of the tournament at this U-20 World Cup. Midfielder Lee Kangin has been dynamic in attack, with a goal and four assists in six matches. His creativity and skill has been one of the bright spots of the tournament.

Korea survived against Ecuador in the semifinal. Lee Gwangyeon made several crucial saves, including the save of the tournament on a close range header in the final minute. Shortly after being saved by the crossbar, they caught Ecuador off guard with a quick free kick routine at the end of the half. Kangin slid a through ball into the box and Choi Jun found the back of the net with a nice right footed shot.

First Time

One of these two nations with lift the U-20 World Cup trophy for the first time. Each of them has been battled tested on their way to the final. The Koreans will look to use their pace and passing to breakdown this stingy Ukrainian defense. Korea’s starlet Kangin will need to be at his creative best, while Ukraine will need to replace its leader Popov in defense. Neither of these nations were among the top fifteen best odds to win before the tournament. Now they are 90 minutes away from glory.