FIFA Under-17 World Cup: Brazil remain unbeaten, join Spain in knockouts

Tournament favourites Brazil lived up to their billing as they scored a convincing 2-0 victory over Niger to top Group D in the FIFA U-17 World Cup on Friday.

The three-times champions, who enjoyed possession against a spirited Niger outfit, scored through Lincoln (4th minute) and Brenner (34th). Debutants Niger gave a good account of themselves and performed better in the second half and had their share of chances, but found the rival keeper Gabriel Brazao a hard nut to crack.

Brazil topped the group with nine points, while Spain, who beat DPR Korea at Kochi in the day’s other match, finished second with six points. Brazil, Spain, Ghana, Colombia, Paraguay, Mali, Iran, Germany, France and England are the 10 teams that have made it to the Round of 16. The other six teams to qualify will be decided on Saturday after the end of Group E and F league engagements.

Niger, who finished third with three points still have a chance to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. DPR Korea finished last without a win. Brazil once again enthralled the capacity Goan crowds with their one-touch play and sublime skills, taking an early lead in the fourth minute.

Midfielder Victor Bobsin, …read more