24 national teams are currently playing the World Cup U17 at India (October 06-October 28). During the Matchday 3, Colombia and England shone again.
Group A : Ghana 6 pts, Colombia 6 pts, United States, 6 pts, India 0 pt.
After winning their two first games, United States were beaten by Colombia (1-3). The American midfielder George Acosta has responded to the early opener scored by Juan Vidal. However, the South Amercains took the lead against thanks to a free-kick from Juan Penaloza, who scored for the third time in this World Cup. Then, Deiber Caicedo added another goal in the last minutes.
Meanwhile, Ghana outclassed the hosts India (4-0). Eric Ayiah shone as he netted twice. Richard Danso and Emmanuel got their names on the scoresheet too..
Group B : Paraguay 9 pts, Mali 6 pts, New Zealand 1 pt, Turkey 1 pt.
Paraguay extend their winning streak as they clinched a 3-1 victory over Turkey. The South Americans had already a three-goal-advantage on the hour mark thanks to a stunning free-kick from Giovanni Bogado and goals from Fernado Cardozo as well as Antonio Galeano. After that, Kerem Kesgin reduced the deficit for Turkey. A small consolation for the Turkish players who are eliminated.
In the other game, Mali earned a crucial 3-1 win over New Zealand (3-1). Salam Guidou gave an early lead to his side with a powerful shot from distance. Few minutes later, Djemoussa Traoré doubled the lead for the Malians. In the second half, Charles Spragg scored for the Oceanians but Lassana N’Diaye led Mali to the victory as he scored his third goal in this competition.
Group C : Iran 9 pts, Germany 6 pts, Guinea 1 pt. Costa Rica 1 pt.
Iran continue to impress as they make it three wins in a row against Costa Rica (3-0). Two penalties from Mohammad Ghobishavi and Taha Shariati gave a two-goal-advantage for the Iranians. Then, they added another one thanks to Mohammad Sardari.
In the other match, Germany earned a 3-1 win over Guinea. The Jann-Fiete Arp’s opener set the Germans on their way but Ibrahima Soumah netted the equalizer few moments later. Germany have eventually waited until the last half-hour to make the difference thanks to the RB Leipzig player Nikolas-Gerrit Kuhn and Sahverdi Cetin.
Group D : Brazil 9 pts, Spain 6 pts, Niger 3 pts, North Korea 0 pt.
Brazil secured top spot in the group D after their 2-0 victory against Niger. Lincoln distinguished himself again as the Vasco de Gama starlet scored his third goal in this World Cup campaign. Then, Brenner fired a winning free-kick to double the Seleçao’s lead. Despite their loss, Niger are qualified for the next round as they are among the best four third-placed teams.
Spain advance as well to the next stage as they have beaten North Korea (2-0) thanks to goals from Moha and Cesar, who played both at Real Madrid.
Group E : France 9 pts, Japan 4 pts, Honduras 3 pts, New Caledonia 1 pt.
France took their tally to 14 goals scored in only 3 games after their impressive win against Honduras (5-1). The Lille youngster Alexis Flips scored twice. The tournament’s top scorer Amine Gouiri (five goals), Wilson Isidor and Yacine Adli scored too for Les Bleuets.
Already qualified before the game, Japan were held to a 1-1 draw by New Caledonia.
Group F : England 9 pts, Irak 4 pts, Mexico 2 pt, Chile, 1 pt.
England proved again that they have one of the most potent strike forces in this World Cup as the Young Three Lions hammered Irak (4-0). The Reading forward Daniel Loader netted a brace in the second half. Before that, Angelo Gomes as well as Emile Smith Rowe found the net.
Qualified for the next round, England and Irak will be joined by Mexico. El Tri secured their qualification thanks to a goalless draw against Chile (0-0).
Last round of 16 :
Colombia-Germany
Paraguay-United States
France-Spain
Iran-Mexico
England-Japan
Mali-Irak
Ghana-Niger
Brazil-Honduras
Amayes Brahmi -
Credits photo : FIFA