FOOTBALL: Mexico and Spain to face off for women’s U-17 World Cup title

A first-time champion will be crowned on Saturday when Mexico kicks off against Spain for the FIFA women’s U-17 World Cup title at the Estadio Charrua in Montevideo (URU).

Mexico got to the final with a 1-0 semifinal win over Canada, thanks to a successful penalty shot by Nicole Perez in the 24th minute. Even though no goal was scored in open play, the Mexicans had control of the game, out-shooting Canada, 18-5, even though they maintained possession only 41% of the time.

Spain, which has finished third (2016) and second (2014) in the last two editions of this tournament, qualified for its second-ever final with a 2-0 win in its semi over New Zealand. Claudia Pina opened the scoring in the 39th minute for her fifth goal of the tournament, and Irene Lopez scored in the 48th minute on a shot which banked in off the goal post. The Spanish had 67% of the possession and had the most shots by 14-10.

The third-place match between Canada and New Zealand – both in a medal match for the first time in this tournament – will also be played on Saturday.

Mexico has also never played in a medal match in this tournament before, losing in the quarterfinals in 2014 and 2016. Spain has been a perennial contender, winning bronze medals in 2010 and 2016 and the silver medal in 2014.

Look for match results and standings here.