Diego Placente Surprises U20 National Team Players with Special Notebooks Ahead of World Cup Semifinal Against Colombia

Diego Placente, renowned for his calm and humble coaching style, has invigorated Argentina’s U20 National Team. Often compared with Lionel Scaloni, Placente assumed leadership on November 26, 2024, succeeding Javier Mascherano. Under his guidance, the team has bonded as a ‘family’ during training at the Lionel Andrés Messi complex in Ezeiza, showcasing their professional growth.
Unique Preparation for World Cup Semifinal
Argentina’s U20 team faces Colombia in the World Cup semifinal this Wednesday at 20:00 (Argentinian time) in Santiago, Chile. This pivotal match marks Argentina’s chance to reach a World Cup final after 18 years. As part of their preparation, Placente gifted special notebooks to all 21 players, each featuring artwork by El Niño Rodríguez and the phrase, “First you believe. Then you create.” These gifts aim to foster self-reflection and personal growth.
Placente’s Thoughtful Gesture
- Gifted notebooks to encourage personal reflection and development
- Artwork and motto to inspire belief and creation
- Books on football tales also shared with selected players
The initiative mirrors Placente’s past approach during the 2023 U17 World Cup in Indonesia, highlighting the phrase “Play like Leo,” a nod to Lionel Messi. Juli Rubinstein, Placente’s partner since his playing days in the 1997 Sub 20 South American Championship in Chile, shared insights into his gesture aimed at keeping egos in check.
Upcoming Clash Against Colombia
The semifinal matchup is not without precedent. Argentina and Colombia have previously met twice in U20 World Cups. Colombia won 2-1 in 2003 for third place, while Argentina triumphed 2-1 in 2005, progressing to the quarterfinals. This third encounter is fraught with challenges for both teams.
Team Lineup Changes
Team | Player | Reason | Replacement |
---|---|---|---|
Argentina | Maher Carrizo | Suspensions | Ian Subiabre |
Argentina | Valente Pierani | Injury | Juan Villalba |
Colombia | Neiser Villarreal | Suspensions | N/A |
Colombia | Carlos Sarabia | Suspensions | N/A |
Neither team is at full strength for this decisive match. Argentina must adapt without Maher Carrizo and Valente Pierani, while Colombia misses key players Neiser Villarreal and Carlos Sarabia, both suspended. Argentina aims for a final berth to face either potential opponent, possibly France, hoping for triumph after their last World Cup win in Canada 2007.
With just one win needed to advance, Argentina’s youth are ready for an intense display of skill and strategy. The notebooks may serve as a source of inspiration, lending them the belief and courage integral for success.