Four African teams are participating in the 2019 FIFA Under-17 World Cup currently ongoing in Brazil. They are Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Angola – the last two being debutants.
The tournament, the 18th edition, is taking place between October 26 and November 17 across four venues in three host cities – Gama, Goiania and Cariacica.
There are 24 teams across six continental federations. Brazil was giving hosting rights after Peru was stripped off the rights due to lack of preparations.
It is the first time Brazil is hosting the contest at this level having previously hosted the main World Cup twice. Africanews will continually update progress on performance of African sides.
October 29: Cameroon records Africa’s first loss
Cameroon’s young lions lost their opening fixture at the tournament after they succumbed to a lone goal defeat against Tajikistan in the early hours of Tuesday (local time).
The loss is also the first for the African contingent in Brazil. Team Africa won their first three games with 10 goals for and three against.
October 28: Flying start for African sides
Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets were the first African side who took on Hungary in opening day fixture. Hungry as Hungary was and taking a 2 – 1 lead at half time, the Eaglets scored thrice in the second half to end the game 4 – 2.
The country’s social media space erupted with celebrations after the feat with President Buhari and Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, leading the congratulations.
Angola also prevailed over New Zealand in their first game posting a 2 – 1 victory. It however took an own goal by the New Zealand side to secure the three points.
Senegal on Match day 2 succumbed to an early goal from the opponents, the United States; they rallied back to hit four past the Americans to secure a 4 – 1 victory.
The last African side, Cameroon, begins their campaign on Monday (October 28) with a clash against Tajikistan.
GROUPS
Group A
Brazil
Angola
New Zealand
Canada
Group B
Nigeria
Ecuador
Australia
Hungary
Group C
France
South Korea
Haiti
Chile
Group D
Senegal
Japan
United States
Netherlands
Group E
Spain
Argentina
Tajikistan
Cameroon
Group F
Solomon Islands
Italy
Paraguay
Mexico
Source: africanews.com
