The England vs Egypt U-20 World Cup match will take place this Saturday, June 29, 2013 (11:00 AM Pacific) at the Ataturk Stadium in Bursa. England and Egypt both still have a chance at making it through to the Round of 16, Egypt is forced to win, while the English might move on with a draw.
England has not had a good U-20 World Cup, earning back to back draws against a surprising Iraq (2-2) and Chile (1-1). This has left the English with 2 points and a +0 goal differential. In order to earn a guaranteed spot in the Round of 16, this is what needs to happen:
- The England vs Egypt match ends in a victory for the Europeans. This would put England at 5 points and guarantee them a spot in the Round of 16.
There are two scenarios if the England vs Egypt match ends in a draw, both might have England move through as one of the best third placed teams:
- A 0-0 or 1-1 draw would leave England with 3 points, a +0 goal differential (with 3 or 4 goals scored). England would surpass El Salvador (3rd place Group C) via goal differential, and would need Uruguay to lose against Uzbekistan.
- A draw where they score 3 or more goals would qualify England to the Round of 16. This would place them over Ghana (goals scored) and El Salvador (goal differential).
A loss eliminates England from the competition, leaving the Europeans without any chances. It is also interesting to note that a 2-2 draw against Egypt would place England tied with Ghana on all criteria. The tie-breaker, and a spot in the Round of 16, would be determined via a coin-flip, this would only happen if Uruguay loses to Uzbekistan, otherwise both Ghana and England go through.
England vs Egypt Prediction
England has the talent to see this game through and earn the 3 points, but it must have its key players functioning at a high level. Ross Barkley needs to dominate the midfield and generate scoring for Harry Kane up front. If these two players can combine for a couple of good plays, England will win.
The England vs Egypt match will end in a 2-1 victory for England. The Europeans have the talent, and should move on through to the Round of 16 with relative ease.
England vs Egypt Television
The England vs Egypt match will be televised on ESPNU and Watch ESPN (online) on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at 11:00 AM Pacific.
