The anticipation is building for the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, set to kick off in Colombia. With an expanded format featuring 24 teams, this edition promises to showcase a plethora of young talent from around the globe. This tournament, renowned for showcasing emerging talent, offers a glimpse into the future of women’s football. Among the young players to watch, several standout talents are expected to make a significant impact. As these athletes take the field, many will be hoping to catch the attention of scouts and fans alike, stepping into the next phase of their careers. Here, we take an in-depth look at some 6 Best Players To Watch At 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, who are expected to make a significant impact during the tournament.
1. Linda Caicedo (Colombia)
Arguably one of the biggest stars of the tournament, Linda Caicedo, at just 19 years old, has already carved out an impressive career in women’s football. Representing the host nation, Colombia, her participation in this U-20 World Cup comes on the back of extensive experience at the senior level. Having made her senior team debut at the age of 14, Caicedo is no stranger to high-stakes competition. Having recently joined Real Madrid CF, Caicedo has made a name for herself as an electric winger, known for her pace, skill, and ability to take on defenders. During the last senior World Cup, her unforgettable goal against Germany highlighted her potential on the world stage. Colombian supporters are hopeful that she will lead her nation’s charge in front of a home crowd, showcasing her talent and determination to make the U-20 World Cup a memorable occasion for her team. That’s why she is on out 6 Best Players To Watch At 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup list.
2. Ally Sentnor (United States)
As the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) looks to secure its fourth U-20 World Cup title, Ally Sentnor will play a pivotal role. The 20-year-old forward has already made waves in women’s soccer, leading to her selection as the first pick in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) draft this year. Her remarkable record of nine goals in 16 appearances at the U-20 level speaks volumes about her goal-scoring prowess. Sentnor’s performances for the North Carolina Tar Heels cemented her reputation, and since joining the Utah Royals, she has become a crucial part of the squad. Known for her powerful shot and decision-making, Sentnor’s ability to create opportunities in the attacking third positions her as one of the top threats for the USWNT as they seek to make history.
3. Olivia Smith (Canada)
The Canadian team is eager to break new ground at the U-20 World Cup, and all eyes will be on Olivia Smith. With an astounding goal record of 20 goals in 18 games, she brings incredible talent to the midfield. Not only has she impressed at the youth level, but she has also earned 10 caps with the senior national team, demonstrating her readiness for international competition. Smith’s skill set encompasses a wide range of abilities; she can contribute defensively while also being a crucial part of the offensive setup. Her recent move to Liverpool highlighted her as one of the best talents in the Portuguese league while she played for Sporting CP. As Canada aims to reach the semifinals for the first time in U-20 World Cup history, Smith will be a central figure in their quest.
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4. Alice Soto (Mexico)
At only 18 years old, Alice Soto has amassed significant professional experience, having debuted for Pachuca at the age of 13. A versatile attacker, Soto has shown an exceptional ability to perform in various forward positions, making her a valuable asset for her national team. Her off-ball movement is one of her standout qualities, often creating space for her teammates. While her development is still ongoing, Soto’s speed and technical ability make her a player to watch. Her potential to influence the game could be the key for Mexico as they navigate through the tournament. If her teammates can match her vision and work rate, Soto will surely shine on the international stage.
5. Priscila Flor da Silva (Brazil)
Brazil has set high expectations after a successful run to the semifinals in the last edition of the U-20 World Cup, and Priscila Flor da Silva will be instrumental in their hopes for success. As a 20-year-old striker, she comes equipped with experience, having participated in the Olympics where Brazil won a silver medal. Her impressive goal-scoring record at last year’s Copa Libertadores, where she netted eight goals in just six matches, underscores her potential to be a game-changer. Flor da Silva’s impressive physicality and technical skills position her as a formidable opponent for rival defenses. If she can carry her club form into the tournament, Brazil’s chances of reaching their first U-20 World Cup final will be significantly enhanced.
6. Indiana Dos Santos (Australia)
At just 16 years old, Indiana Dos Santos is the youngest player on the Australian squad and brings a fresh perspective to the tournament. Although she may not start every game, her ability to change the dynamics when she enters the field cannot be understated. Having already experienced success at the club level with Sydney FC, including two A-League Grand Finals, Dos Santos has showcased her capability to perform under pressure. Similar to Soto, Dos Santos is known for her agility and ability to make incisive runs behind defenders, providing her team with an attacking spark. As she learns and grows in this competitive environment, her contributions could prove vital for Australia’s advancement in the tournament.
Conclusion
The 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup is set to be an exciting display of young talent, with numerous players ready to leave their mark on the global stage. From the host nation’s shining star, Linda Caicedo, to the powerful presence of Priscila Flor da Silva, each of these athletes possesses unique skills and determination that could influence the tournament’s outcome. As teams vie for supremacy and a chance at glory, the world will undoubtedly be watching these promising starlets closely, eagerly anticipating who will emerge as the next generation of women’s soccer legends. The tournament holds immense potential not just for the participating teams, but also for the fans who have the privilege of witnessing the evolution of these young stars.
