The Cuban Under-20 men's national soccer team will face its Italian counterpart on Wednesday afternoon in the continuation of Group D actions for the 2025 FIFA World Cup in Chile.

Second Match in Valparaíso

The Caribbean Lions will play their second tournament match once again at the Elías Figueroa Brander Stadium in Valparaíso. It was on this same pitch that they fell 1-3 to Argentina on Sunday night. The Argentine squad, a six-time world champion in the category, validated its favorite status in the opening match for both teams in the global tournament.

Recap of the Debut Against Argentina

According to the ACN, the lone goal for the island nation came on the brink of halftime, following a rebound in the six-yard box after a corner kick, and was converted by captain Karel Pérez (minute 45+4).

For Argentina, which played with one man less from the 10th minute due to the expulsion of central defender Santiago Fernández, Alejo Sarco scored a double (minutes 3 and 41), while Ian Subiabre added the third goal at minute 90.

Argentina maintained 58% of ball possession and registered eight shots on target, compared to 42% possession and 2 shots for the Cubans.

Italy's Tight Opening Victory

Italy, Cuba's opponent for the second matchday, *comes from a narrow 1-0 victory over Australia*, the other team in the group.

Cuba's World Cup History

This marks Cuba's second participation in these global youth championships, following its first appearance in Turkey-2013, where the islanders were defeated in all three of their matches.

Tournament Overview

A total of 24 national teams are attending the current world championship. From Latin America and the Caribbean, the nations competing, besides Cuba and Argentina, are Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Mexico, Panama, and host Chile.