Italy vs USA (FIFA U-20 World Cup) Preview, Prediction, Possible Lineups and Betting Tips

Italy continue their hunt for the FIFA U-20 World Cup trophy on October 8th, as the Azzurrini face USA in the Ro16 and you can find a full preview, prediction, possible lineups and betting tips below.

USA U-20 vs Italy U-20 Preview

The young Italian national team made their way into the knockout stages of this year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup after finishing second in Group D, despite a run of underwhelming perfomances

Carmine Nunziata’s side covered all bases in their three group stage encounters, picking up four points with a win, draw and defeat.

The Azzurini began the tournament with a narrow victory over Australia, before a shock draw to Cuba in the following match.

Andrea Natali, who has been tipped as a player to watch for Italy, opened the scoring against Cuba before Jamal Iddrissou added a second.

Iddrissou would then be dismissed for two yellow cards within 10 minutes just before the half-time whistle – allowing Cuba to overturn a 2-0 deficit and earn a point.

Italy were then beaten 1-0 by Argentina in the final group stage encounter and this sealed their fate in Group D.

The Azzurrini’s upcoming opponents finished top of Group E after securing two wins from the three group stage matches – including a 9-1 victory over New Caledonia.

This historic victory was followed by a 3-0 win over France, before the young American side were beaten 2-1 by South Africa.

Benjamin Cremaschi was the star of the show for the U.S. during the group stages, ending the early part of the tournament with five goal contributions (3G + 2A).

USA U-20 vs Italy U-20 Prediction

The United States were one of the best-performing teams during the group stages, scoring 13 goals in three matches – 10 more than Italy managed.

The Azzurrini have been superior during their meetings with USA in the past, winning both of their encounters in international competition, but these two sides have not met since 2008.

Taking this into consideration, we expect Italy’s clash against USA to be a cagey affair with both sides being evenly matched – but the Azzurrini should progress into the quarter finals.

Prediction: USA U-20 1-2 Italy U-20

USA U-20 vs Italy U-20 Possible Lineups

USA U-20: Beaudry; Norris, Kohler, Wynder, Westfield; Tsakiris, Raines, Cremaschi; Gozo, Habroune, Campbell

Italy U-20: Nunziante; Verde, Corradi, Natali; Benjamin, Mannini, Riccio, Cama; Mosconi, Iddrissou, Okoro

USA U-20 vs Italy U-20 Betting Tips

Italy To Qualify For Next Round: +150

The Azzurrini have struggled to show signs of the side that reached the U-20 World Cup Final in 2023, with many star players being left out of the squad due to club restrictions.

Although their performances have failed to impress so far, Nunziata’s side have faced stiffer competition than their upcoming opponents.

During the 1-0 victory over Australia, the young Italian side showed glimpses of the quality that many have become accustomed to in recent times.

USA U-20 vs Italy U-20 Odds