FIFA U-17 WC : Brazil through to the pre-quarters after a 2-0 victory vs North Korea
THE SAMBA boys dressed in their blue attire today took on the boys in white, North Korea at the JLN stadium in Kochi in the second match of the night.
From the get go, Brazil had their attacking mode on and therefore spent most of the time inside the North Korean half, leaving the former's keeper Gabriel Brazao doing nothing apart from waiting for the ball to come to him.
Though the Brazilians had most of the possession, they were just not able to convert any of their chances.
The reason being, the North Korean team as a whole gave their all, not letting any of their opponents' shots meet the net. There were numerous chances from Alan, Paulinho, Marcus Antonio but none of them could put their team in lead. It could be said that it was a well fought first half with Brazilians keeping the ball and North Koreans doing their every bit to keep them away from scoring.
The fans were hoping for some fireworks in the second half and the Brazilians gave them. After trying hard in the first half to get a goal, second half saw Brazil score two goals in quick succession. Lincoln scored the first goal in the 56th minute through a header while second one was scored by the star number 7, six minutes later Paulinho doubled the score which gave the boys in blue a comfortable cushion and advantage.
They knew if this lead remained or extended, they are through to the next round of the tournament. Towards the end of the match, it was the North Koreans who dominated and pressed hard to get a goal. The closest they came, with a hard shot on target but a brilliant save by the Brazilian keeper saw the scores remain the same.
As the clock hit the 90th minute, the Brazilians slowed down the pace and some of the fans were seen leaving the stadium. Happy and content that their favourite football team has made it to the next round.
Two wins in a row for the boys from Brazil which meant that they are through to the round of 16 with 6 points. They play their final group stage match against Niger in Goa on 13th October.
Get the latest in the world of Sports, Teams, and Players! Free Delivery to your Inbox.
