FIFA has decided that the World Cup title in the Under 20 category will be staged on Argentine soil, and the venues for the matches have already been selected. The announcement sets a clear plan for Argentina to host the tournament once again, following a precedent set in 2001 when the country previously welcomed the competition.
Unlike the previous edition, this decision emerged from a last-minute shift rather than a routine bid. Initially, Indonesia was slated to stage the tournament, but the exclusion of the Israel national team led to a withdrawal by the global football authority. The landscape shifted swiftly, prompting Argentina to step forward as the hosting nation and to present a candidacy that aligned with its historic football tradition.
During an informal moment linked to the CONMEBOL Congress, the process gained momentum as Gianni Infantino’s presence coincided with discussions about the hosting duty. Chiqui Tapia put forth Argentina’s candidacy, and the proposal received favorable consideration. This development also opened the door for the Albiceleste to participate in a tournament they had previously missed after a setback in the South American calendar from January. The official confirmation remains pending, but the trajectory points to Argentina taking the stage as host nation for this edition.
The event window is set between May 20 and June 11, providing a tight but achievable timeline for preparation. Argentina has mobilized quickly, outlining a plan that centers on eight shortlisted venues. Six venues will ultimately be selected for use, with a rationale that favors stadiums affiliated with football clubs that actively compete in domestic leagues. As a result, the iconic Monumental and the city of Rosario will not host matches. Additionally, several local clubs—Talleres, Belgrano, Instituto, Central Córdoba, and Godoy Cruz—are tied to provincial administrations rather than private ownership, shaping the geographic and administrative landscape of the tournament.
GOAL presents the chosen stadiums, offering fans and observers a detailed look at where the world’s best young players will showcase their talents in a country renowned for its footballing culture.
SINGLE CITY OF LA PLATA STADIUM
With a total capacity of 53,000 spectators, the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in La Plata will host the opening match and will also stage the World Cup final. The venue stands as a symbol of Argentine football’s fervor, combining modern facilities with a storied atmosphere that has welcomed countless memorable moments in domestic and international competition.
MOTHER OF CITIES STADIUM
In Santiago del Estero, the stadium accommodates 30,000 fans and is recognized as one of the most contemporary facilities in the country. Its design emphasizes spectator comfort, efficient circulation, and the ability to host a high-profile international event with a regional flavor that resonates with local supporters.
MALVINAS ARGENTINA STADIUM
Reputed for its role in Argentina’s rich World Cup heritage, this venue can seat up to 42,000 spectators. It represents a link between historic milestones and modern infrastructure, offering a stage where teams can deliver decisive performances under intense scrutiny from fans and media alike.
MARIO KEMPES STADIUM
The largest arena in the country’s interior, Mario Kempes Stadium, reaches a maximum capacity of 57,000. It stands as a landmark for regional pride, providing ample space for a broad fan base to gather in a setting that balances tradition with contemporary sport presentation.
200 YEARS OF STADIUM
San Juan’s modern venue, home to several local finals, offers a 25,000-seat capacity. Its inclusion underscores the emphasis on accessible venues across diverse provinces, allowing regional communities to participate in the World Cup experience while maintaining high standards for competition and fan engagement.
JUST STADIUM OF VILLA MERCEDES
Known colloquially as La Pedrera, this stadium was inaugurated six years ago and can welcome 30,000 spectators. Its relatively young pedigree does not diminish its stature; instead, it adds a fresh, vibrant backdrop to the tournament, reflecting Argentina’s ongoing commitment to upgrading football infrastructure.
200 YEARS OF STADIUM
Resistencia, in the Chaco province, anchors a venue that was considered but ultimately did not make the final list. The decision illustrates the competition’s careful balance between capacity, accessibility, and logistical practicality when finalizing the lineup of hosting sites.
PADRE MARTEARENA STADIUM
The same fate befell the Salta facility, another shortlisted option. Its exclusion highlights the practical constraints governing the final composition of the host venues, ensuring that the selected sites meet the tournament’s stringent standards for safety, broadcasting, and spectator experience.
While these decisions shape the tournament, the overarching goal remains clear: to deliver a compelling and memorable World Cup Under 20 that reflects Argentina’s enduring passion for football, uplifts regional communities, and showcases the talents of the world’s rising stars in a setting that honors both tradition and progress.