Key Battles to Watch in FIFA U-20 World Cup Quarterfinals

As the FIFA U-20 World Cup quarterfinals approach, we preview the key battle in each of the four games.

How will South Korea respond after being taken to penalties by Colombia? What can Iraq and Uzbekistan do to extend their fantasy runs in the competition?

France have stormed into form and Spain carry a four-game win streak—are these the two favourites to win?

Read on and enjoy the slideshow!

Uruguay vs. Spain

Full-Backs vs. Wide Forwards

Uruguay's full-backs have impressed so far in the tournament, proving themselves defensively conscious and measured going forward.

Manchester United new-boy Guillermo Varela and Gianni Rodriguez have performed well in every single category so far, but now face what appears to be the biggest test of their young careers.

Gerard Deulofeu and Jese have been tearing teams apart on their way to the quarterfinals, the former bagging five goals and the latter a trio of assists.

We've praised Varela for bringing a conscientious game to the table. That notion will be tested to the limit when taking on Jese. 

France vs. Uzbekistan

Talent vs. Exuberance

France came into the tournament as hot favourites, and, despite a slow start, have moved through the gears into good form.

Their crushing 4-1 victory over Turkey announced their arrival at the tournament, enjoying such an advantage that Florian Thauvin had the chance to blaze an inconsequential penalty out of the stadium.

Uzbekistan, on the other hand, were thoroughly unfancied.

Asian sides are on the up thanks to improved resources and structure. It's part momentum and part organization that has carried the White Wolves this far.

As it stands, it's established talent versus hopeful exuberance. 

Ghana vs. Chile

Pace vs. Technique

Ghana, another up-and-coming nation, progressed to the quarterfinals by beating much-fancied Portugal.

Their game is founded upon pace and power, and while an element of structure has been found, they love nothing more than to play at break-neck speed.

It's a true contrast of styles, with the Black Satellites' speedsters coming up against a far less direct Chilean side who are starting to find their feet.

They play it on the deck, from the back and to the feet. The match will serve as a direct comparison between two very different footballing styles, and it will be intriguing to see whose template wins out. 

Iraq vs. South Korea

Strategy vs. Variety

Iraq's run to the quarterfinals has been nothing short of remarkable, and coach Hakeem Shaker deserves a lot of credit.

They play strategic football, fouling when necessary, slowing the tempo when necessary and hurtling forward at the right times.

The Young Lions are extremely well drilled, and will come up against a South Korean side willing to probe and search for openings patiently.

They've overcome a strong test in Colombia—a game that went all the way to penalties—and will be harboring some tired legs, but they have the flair and variety in their play to crack Iraq's code. 

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