November 30 – Spain and Mexico will lock horns on Saturday to decide who takes gold at the U17 Women’s World Cup in Uruguay.
The Spaniards were superior in their semi-final against New Zealand with Claudio Pina and Irene Lopez scoring to ensure victory and a ticket for the decider. The Spanish have been prolific in the tournament with 13 goals from 100 shots, more than any other team in Uruguay.
“I am very proud of the players,” said Spain coach Tona Is. “They have made me the happiest woman on earth. We are in a World Cup final and it’s something that I have been dreaming all my life. It’s a dream come true and we’re going to try to take the trophy home.
“We are the favourites but that does not have to a distraction. The favourites label does not weigh on us. We have to work as usual and without pressure.”
Spain meet Mexico, who edged Canada 1-0 in an all-CONCACAF semi final. Nicole Perez scored the winning goal in the 25th minute to punch Mexico’s final ticket. Mexico’s are heading for their first-ever Women’s World Cup final at any age-group level.
In the third place play-off Canada will take on New Zealand, who can reflect on an exceptional tournament. After his team’s elimination New Zealand coach Leon Birnie was “obviously disappointed but, in the same sentence, really proud of the girls. They had a fantastic run.”
“We made history when we got past the group phase for the first time and we made history again when we reached the semi-finals. We gave it our all on the pitch. The girls can be proud of themselves.”
Contact the writer of this story Samindra Kunti, at moc.l1734859948labto1734859948ofdlr1734859948owedi1734859948sni@o1734859948fni1734859948