Spain need win vs inspired Niger

KOCHI: European champions Spain had come into the FIFA U-17 World Cup as one of the title favourites. However, one game into the tournament, they find themselves in a make-or-break situation after losing the opening game of Group D to Brazil.

The Spaniards had started well against the South American champions, taking an early lead through an own goal, before defensive lapses saw them go down 2-1. Their opponents on Tuesday, unfancied Africans Niger, made history the same day when they beat North Korea 1-0 in what was their first match at a World Cup, across age groups. “This is the first time we are attending a tournament like this. People of our country are proud of our performance ,” said Tiemo go Sou mali a, Niger head coach.