Tokyo Olympics 2021: Spain U23 vs Ivory Coast U23 | Match Preview and Prediction

Spain will continue their quest for a gold medal in the men's football event at the Tokyo Olympics when they play Ivory Coast on Saturday at the Miyagi Stadium.  

Tokyo Olympics 2021: Match Details 

Event: Men’s Football Quarter-Final
Match: Spain vs Ivory Coast 
Date: 31 July 2021
Location: Miyagi Stadium 
Kick-off time: 10 am (Central Europe Time) 5 pm (Japan Standard Time)

Spain haven't yet fired on all cylinders in the tournament scoring only two goals and finishing top of the group one point above Egypt. However, La Roja will need to play out of their skins to stand a chance this week as they face a spirited Ivory Coast. 

Ivory Coast have been resolute as they came in quarter-finals on the back of a tough group containing Brazil and Germany. Another world-class team lies ahead of Ivory Coast as they will go with a purpose in the quarter-final against Spain.   

Spain U23 Form Guide (all competitions): D-W-D-D

Ivory Coast U23 Form Guide (all competitions): D-D-W-L-W

Spain U23 vs Ivory Coast U23: Predicted Lineup

Spain U23 (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Marc Cucurella, Pau Torres, Eric Garcia, Bryan Gil; Pedri, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino; Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Marco Asensio.

Ivory Coast (4-2-3-1): Ira Tape; Ismael Diallo, Kouadio-Yves Dabila, Eric Bailly, Wilfried Singo; Kader Keita, Eboue Kouassi; Max Gradel, Franck Kessie, Christian Kouame; Youssouef Dao.

Spain U23 vs Ivory Coast U23: Prediction 

Spain will need to be clinical in front of goal, having scored only two goals in the group stage in spite of their trademark possession-based style. The front three, Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Marco Asensio should serve their purpose in front of the goal.

Ivory Coast will be eager to take La Roja in the quarter-final, as they competed in one of the most challenging groups; however, Spain has a robust squad and can exploit Ivory Coast’s defensive vulnerability.

Sportco predicts Spain should win this game and book a place in the semi-final.