Brazil secures victory over Italy and advances to semifinals
Host Brazil secured their place in the U-17 World Cup semifinals on Monday with a 2-0 victory over Italy in Goiania.
The Canarinha did not miss their star player, forward Talles Magno, who was injured in the last match. They took the lead with an early goal in the 6th minute by Patryck.
The left-back made a run into the box and deceived goalkeeper Marco Molla with a well-placed shot, which was expected to be a cross.
Italy had several opportunities to equalize, mostly from set-pieces, but they failed to find the back of the net against goalkeeper Matheus Donelli.
Just before halftime, a Brazilian counterattack ended with a great assist from Pedro Lucas to Peglow, who sent a low, curled shot from the right that hit the post and went into the Italian net.
In the second half, Italy struggled physically and failed to threaten Brazil as much. Brazil had several counterattacks to score a third goal, but without success.
Brazil will face France in the semifinals on Thursday in Gama. Both teams have won all five of their matches in the tournament.
This is Brazil's second consecutive semifinal appearance. In the 2017 World Cup in India, they were eliminated by England, who went on to win the title.
Brazil is seeking their fourth U-17 World Cup title, after winning in 1997, 1999, and 2003. France, their next opponent, won the 2011 edition in Trinidad and Tobago. AFP