Korea Republic set to enjoy U-20 taster tournament - FIFA U-20 WORLD CUP
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| AFC |
Any fans in Korea Republic unable to wait until the big FIFA U-20 World Cup kick off in May are in luck, with four of the teams set for the global finals in line to compete in a six-day tournament from 25-30 March.
The host nation have invited a trio from three different confederations - African champions Zambia, CONCACAF runners-up Honduras and Ecuador, who finished second in South America - take to battle it out as part of a dress rehearsal for the competition itself. The games will take part in three of the host cities at Korea Republic 2017, namely Suwon, Cheonan and Jeju.
The hosts were drawn in Group A alongside Guinea, Argentina and England during Wednesday's Official Draw. Zambia, meanwhile, occupy Group C with Portugal, Iran and Costa Rica; Honduras are joined in Group E by France, debutants Vietnam and New Zealand; and finally Ecuador will meet USA, Saudi Arabia and Senegal in Group F.
Shin Taeyong's Korea Republic side will open their campaign against Honduras in Suwon on 25 May, before tackling Zambia in Cheonan on 27 May and the finally meeting Ecuador in Jeju on 30 May. While the Taeguk Warriors coach will no doubt be hoping this provides some valuable preparation on the field, the Local Organising Committee will also be intent to allow the host city officials and volunteers the perfect opportunity to ensure the action from 20 May - 11 June is a treat for all.
Fixtures (all local time)
Suwon World Cup Stadium, 25 March
Zambia v Ecuador (16.00)
Korea Republic v Honduras (19.00)
Cheonan Sports Complex, 27 March
Ecuador v Honduras (16.00)
Korea Republic v Zambia (19.00)
Jeju World Cup Stadium, 30 March
Honduras v Zambia (16.00)
Ecuador v Korea Republic (19.00)