The 2025 South American Under-20 Championship is heating up as Brazil and Argentina prepare to face off this Thursday, January 24, at the Estadio Olímpico de la UCV in Caracas, Venezuela. This much-anticipated clash not only has the potential to determine the championship winner but also acts as revenge for Brazil after their humiliATING 6-0 defeat to Argentina earlier in the tournament. The match kicks off at 10 PM (Brasília time), with Sportv broadcasting live and ge providing real-time coverage.
After a rocky start, Brazil has bounced back impressively, securing their spot in the final hexagonal round, demonstrating significant improvement and qualifying for the Under-20 World Cup with one round to spare. Under coach Ramon Menezes, Brazil enters this pivotal match leading the hexagonal standings with nine points from three games, just above Argentina, who shares the same point total but trails on goal difference (4 to 3).
A win would grant Brazil the championship title, marking their second consecutive title after winning the previous edition of the tournament. To clinch the crown, they need to achieve 12 points, which would place them securely atop the standings, allowing for some leeway even if they were to lose against Chile in their final match.
“It’s a huge classic, and we all know the importance of this game,” said midfielder Gabriel Moscardo. “I’ve missed the thrill of playing big games, and we’re going all out for the win and the title.”
Meanwhile, on the same day, Paraguay and Uruguay vie for survival at 5 PM (local time) at the same Venezuelan venue. With both teams seeking early tournament success, the stakes are incredibly high, with each team eyeing World Cup qualification. Paraguay currently stands fourth with three points, thanks to their earlier victory against Chile, whereas Uruguay sits fifth with just one point from their previous encounters.
Uruguay, reigning World Champions at this level, finds themselves under immense pressure after underperforming throughout the tournament’s final phase. Head coach Fabián Coito’s squad has faced off against tough opponents, enduring two narrow losses: 1-0 against Brazil and 4-3 against Argentina, along with a disappointing draw against Chile. They are now desperate for victory to keep their World Cup hopes alive, heading to this match with the realization of no second chances.
The competition between these two famed football nations has historically been fierce, and this meeting promises to be no different. Paraguayan fans will fervently root for their young team, confident following their recent performance. The match is expected to draw significant attendance, with tickets selling rapidly amid enthusiasm, particularly from Paraguayan supporters.
“We know it’s do-or-die,” admitted Joaquín Lavega, captain of Uruguay. “This is like our final against Paraguay, and we understand the significance of this match for our chances of qualifying.” The path to World Cup qualification is fraught with challenges, and every moment counts.
Tickets for this high-stakes match can be found within the price range of $5 to $20, reflecting the urgency of the situation. Venezuelan fans are eager to witness the matchup between these two rival nations.
The South American Under-20 Championship, established by CONMEBOL since 1954, serves as the primary qualification pathway for the Youth World Cup and also bestows Pan-American Games spots upon finalists. Over the decades, it has helped rise several football icons, including Neymar, Lionel Messi, and many more.
The tournament's significance cannot be understated; it has historical roots and thrives on tradition as two teams known for their footballing prowess face off. Brazil's successful campaign building momentum through recent victories and Argentina’s strong footballing legacy set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling chapter of South American football history.
Brazil leads the tournament’s scoring charts with 11 goals, highlighting their offensive skills employed throughout this championship. Paraguay, featuring commendable defense, remains vigilant with only four goals conceded. Uruguay looks to improve their statistics as they strive for redemption after narrow defeats, leveraging their rapid offensive talents to secure goals.
Fans, analysts, and star scouts alike will be watching closely, with many eyes on talented players such as Octavio Alfonso and Renzo Machado — Paraguay and Uruguay’s star forwards, respectively, who could significantly impact their team's fates.
The group stage matchups have produced significant drama, and the final rounds of the tournament are set to keep fans on the edge of their seats, forecasting relentless competition and meaningful football stories.
It promises to be exhilarating as teams clash, not just for domination but for the chance to carve their paths as youth football champions, with the goal of achieving a coveted place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this year.