Chile off to flying start in U-17 World Cup opener, defeat NZ 3-1
Chile lived up to its mark to outclass New Zealand 3-1 in the first Group B fixture of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup on Tuesday at Nehru Stadium in Fatorda.
The opening match of Group B saw complete domination from Chile as Ambar Figueroa capitalised on a brilliant assist from Constanza Oliver in the 12th minute to get her side on the scoreboard.
A gruelling collision between the Kiwi goalkeeper and Oliver in the 22nd minute earned Chile a penalty and Tali Sima Rovner Yudelevich made the most of it as she successfully struck for her side and enhanced their lead to 2-0.
New Zealand also found a couple of chances to get the scoreboard moving in their favour but the side failed to utilise them and the scores remained intact at 2-0 in the first half.
However, the team had a change of fortune in the second half as Emily Clegg scored the goal just seven minutes into the second half, thanks to a corner assist from Helena Errington.
Chile then bounced back in the 64th minute and restored their lead after Anais San Juan netted after a long strike.
Meanwhile, in the Group A fixture, Brazil outclassed Morocco 1-0, courtesy of a brilliant strike from Ingrid Johnson in the fifth minute.
Chile and Brazil have attained the top spots in their respective groups following their victories.