Argentina’s dream of lifting the Under-17 Football World Cup was shattered today by a 3-0 semi-final reverse to Mexico, who will move on to play Nigeria in the showpiece match of the tournament in the United Arab Emirates.
The team coached by Humberto Grondona entered the match with high hopes after impressive victories over Tunisia and Cote d’Ivoire, but they could not handle a far superior Tricolor. Mexico were in control from the very start, beginning in explosive fashion thanks to a double from Iván Ochoa.
Life for the Albiceleste youngsters was made even harder after the expulsion of Joaquin Ibáñez after 31 minutes, making the final hour little more than an exercise in damage limitation.
Marcos Granados made it three a handful of minutes from the end, and Argentina’s disappointment was compounded by a second red card, for goalkeeper Augusto Batalla, just before the final whistle.
Mexico, who were congratulated after the match by President Enrique Peña Nieto, will compete in the final this Friday against Nigeria. The African side also ran out easy winners, beating Sweden 3-0 to book their place in the decider.
buenosairesherald.com