The 2025 FIFA U 17 World Cup got underway on Monday with 8 fixtures lined up from group A all the way to Group D.
There were mixed fortunes for African teams taking part the coveted annual tournament that started today at the Aspire Zone Sports Complex.
South Africa began with a 3-1 win over Bolivia despite ending the game with a player less.
Goals from Emile Witbooi, Neo Bohloko and Shaun Els earned ten-player South Africa a superb win over Bolivia.
The Amajimbos were dealt a significant blow when Sive Pama was sent off midway through the first half, but Witbooi soon fired them in front before Bohloko added a second from close range. Bolivia pulled one back through Jesus Maraude’s Panenka-style penalty, but Shaun Els’ late breakaway effort put the result beyond doubt.
South Africa now lead group A on 3 points, same as Italy who edged hosts Qatar 1-0.
African Champions Morocco were swept aside by dominant Japan who clinched a 2-0 win in Group B thanks to goals from Taiga Seguchi and Daigo Hirashima.
In the same group, Portugal outwitted debutants New Caledonia 6-0.
Elsewhere, Senegal saw their Group C opener end in a baren stalemate. United Arab Emirates and Costa Rica also shared spoils in a one-all draw.
The other African team that was in action today is Tunisia who obliterated Fiji in Group D, winning 6-0 in a one-sided affair.
Action will continue on Tuesday with several other fixtures lined up.
Thank Joel for the report. Just a small typo…
taking part …..the coveted
IN
Also starting “There were mixed fortunes…” Gives the story a negative punch yet it’s a flying start for the African teams. Morocco may be African champions but that was in a different tournament. In this one they failed to perform in the day, they shouldn’t determine the story. Otherwise good job.
Thanks Joel for the report. Just a small typo…
taking part …..the coveted…
IN
Also starting “There were mixed fortunes…” Gives the story a negative punch yet it’s a flying start for the African teams. Morocco may be African champions but that was in a different tournament. In this one, they failed to perform on the day, so they shouldn’t determine the story. Otherwise, good job.