The second round of the FIFA U-20 World Cup group stage will feature a match on Friday at the “Nacional Julio Martínez Pradanos” stadium in Santiago, where Ukraine will compete against Paraguay. A bet on the outcome of this match offers promising odds.
Match preview
Ukraine started the tournament strongly, winning against South Korea (2-1) and drawing with Panama (1-1), placing them at the top of their group. The team shows a good balance of attack and defense, although they have struggled to keep clean sheets. Ukraine previously won the U-20 world title in 2019, reinforcing their status as a strong European contender.
Sinchuk has been a standout player, scoring two goals so far. The coaching staff uses the wings effectively, with Yaroslavovych and Onebuchi adding creativity. The team is well-organized and adapts well to the changing dynamics of a match, an important trait in high-stakes situations.
Paraguay is also unbeaten, with a tough win against Panama (3-2) and a draw with South Korea. Their play style emphasizes strong defense and quick counterattacks, a strategy that has kept them level with Ukraine in the group table.
Paraguay’s discipline is commendable; they stay calm during critical moments and avoid costly mistakes. In attack, González and Maidana have made contributions in the group stage. Paraguay has a strong track record in youth tournaments and is experienced in advancing past the group stage.
Probable lineups
- Ukraine (U20): Krapivtsov, Husiev, Melnychenko, Nikola, Onebuchi, Yaroslavovych, Budko, Krevsun, Sinchuk, Pishchur, Derkach
- Paraguay (U20): Insfrán, Cáceres, Otazu, Maidana, Quintana, Baruja, González, Guinasu, Miño, Villalba, Fernández
Match facts and head-to-head
- Ukraine remains unbeaten in the 2025 U-20 World Cup, having scored in both matches.
- Paraguay has drawn 4 of their last 5 official matches.
- Both teams have 4 points and the same goal difference (+1).
Prediction
With both teams showing similar form and records, a draw may be the most favorable result for both Ukraine and Paraguay, ensuring their spots in the playoffs. Given their cautious play styles and the tournament context, a draw seems likely.