It’s Battle Ground Peru for South America’s Young Talents

By Gordon Fleetwood, writing in New York City

The latest edition of the U20 South American Youth Championship is about to get under way in Peru. The top young players in South America are ready to display their talent on the international stage. Another exhilarating feast of football is on the cards. The stakes are as high are ever, with not only qualification for this year’s U20 World Cup up for grabs, but also the right to contest the  2012 Olympics. 

Qualification is dividing into two rounds. The first group stage consists of two groups of five teams. The bottom two teams are eliminated, while the top three advance to the next round. The second group stage has these six teams fighting for four qualification spots. The winner of this group wins the competition outright. However, with Colombia being the host of the U20 World Cup, the possible permutations have increased slightly. If Colombia gets one of the top four spots in the second group stage, then the fifth place team will qualify as well. 

In 2009 a number of talents made their name on this stage. Players such as Giuliano, Abel Hernandez, and Eduardo Salvio - among others - shined in the last tournament, and were rewarded with moves to big clubs. For this year’s generation, there is also the added incentive that good performances will put them into consideration for this year’s Copa America. 

Brazil’s Neymar is the main attraction in Peru, as he spear-heads the Selecão’s attempt to win another title. He will be supported by a strong supporting cast, with Lucas, Alan Patrick, and Diego Mauricio also pulling on the famous blue and yellow kit. The other South American powerhouse, Argentina, will be looking for redemption. A poor showing in 2009, saw them  - as the holders - fail to qualify for the U20 World Cup. Led by Sergio Araujo and Michael Hoyos, the Albiceleste will look to reestablish themselves as top dogs of South America at this level. 

The rest of the pack is isn’t content to let the big two run away with it. Paraguay will hope to replicate their second place overall finish from 2009,  with the 17 year-old Miguel Medina leading the line. Uruguay have performed consistently at the level for years, and their production line continues to be prolific. With players like Sebastian Gallegos and Diego Polenta, another impressive tournament looks to be on the cards for the young Uruguayans. Other star players will be hoping to led their countries the promised land. The likes of  Peru’s Joazinho Arroe, Colombia’s  James Rodriguez, and Ecuador’s Juan Canazares will have the hopes of a nation resting on their young shoulders. 

This tournament promises to be one of most exciting yet. The first match kicks off today with Argentina facing Uruguay, followed by Peru vs. Chile.

Groups

Group A: Argentina, Uruguay, Peru , Chile, Venezuela

Group B: Brazil, Paraguay, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador

Who do you think will win it all?

(Source: matchcentre)