U23 Dominican Republic had a commendable start in their first time participating in an Olympics, holding a fairly experienced team, U23 Egypt, to a 0-0 draw.
They were overwhelmed by their opponents in terms of creating opportunities, but overall, the match was quite balanced. But Spain U23 is a much more difficult challenge for Ibai Gomez and his team. During preparations for the Olympics, U23 Dominican Republic lost 0-6 to the US and 0-7 to France.
Those results show that they have a significant gap with strong teams. And against a talented Spain side, they need to perform even better if they want to have a chance of winning.
Meanwhile, after a successful summer for the national team, the burden of expectations is placed on Spain U23 with the goal of winning a Gold medal in Paris this year.
La Roja got off to a smooth start with a 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan. They are missing some young stars like Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Pedri, but still show outstanding cohesion and quality.
A point against Dominican Republic U23 will almost certainly guarantee Spain U23 a place in the quarter-finals of men's football. If they win, they will relieve a lot of pressure in the final match of the group stage with Egypt U23.
Probable teams:
U23 Dominican Republic: Valdez; de Lucas, Pujol, Urbaez; Marian, Morschel, Messina, Nunez, Gonzalez; Lorenzo, Urena
Spain U23: Tenas; Miranda, Garcia, Pubill, Pacheco; Gomez, Baena, Oroz, Barrios, Lopez; Ruiz
