"Morocco played a near-perfect game to beat Argentina 2-0 in the final of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup. The result, of course, was a disappointment for Argentina, who have won this trophy more times than anyone else, but not since 2007. And it was a disappointment for South America, both because of home advantage -- the tournament took place in Chile -- and because this age level is seen on the continent as an important conveyor belt towards the senior side."
"However, there is a silver lining. With the performances of Argentina and Colombia, South America finished second and third respectively. And there is a wider point: Perhaps the U20 World Cup is no longer fit for purpose. Changes in the game -- better pitches and more protection for talent -- have made it easier for teenage players to shine with even the biggest clubs, and those youngsters do not feature in the tournament because clubs are not obliged to release them."
"This World Cup, then, has become a relatively random collection of players, those whose services the federations have been able to secure, and quality suffers as a consequence. The Uruguay side that won the 2023 title are a case in point. Not one of that team has yet kicked on to play a significant part in Marcelo Bielsa's senior side."
Morocco defeated Argentina 2-0 to win the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, denying Argentina a return to the trophy last won in 2007. South America underperformed despite home advantage in Chile, though Argentina and Colombia finished second and third. Improved pitches and greater protection of young talent have allowed top teenagers to flourish at their clubs, reducing national teams' access to the best players for the U20 tournament. The competition often fields a patchwork of players federations can secure, which can lower overall quality, yet the U20 World Cup still provides exposure and valuable experience for rising talent.
Read at ESPN.com
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