Brazil rally to edge past Spain

TOP DRAW Threetime U17 World Cup champs turn the match around after conceding an own goal in the 5th minute

KOCHI: Goals from Lincoln and Paulinho saw Brazil edge out Spain 2-1 in a thrilling Group D encounter. The Selecao came back from a goal down to seal victory. Spain started the game well. Playing with a high defensive line, the European champions gave Brazil a few jitters early on.

In the fourth minute, Spain’s Abel Ruiz almost caught the Brazilian defence napping after being put through on goal by Ferran Torres. His shot was kept out by goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao.

It didn’t take long for Spain to take the lead. With Torres causing trouble in Brazil’s left flank with pace, the right winger managed to put in a low cross towards the goal. Under pressure from Mohamed Moukhliss, who was waiting in the middle, Brazil’s Wesley inadvertently put the ball inside his own net.

Brazil were all over Spain for the next few minutes. Paulinho’s shot in the 19th minute was saved by Spanish custodian Alvaro Fernandez. A minute later, Brenner shot from long range, his effort only inches wide.

Brazil’s persistence paid off in the 26th minute as Lincoln finished off a rebound after Alvaro parried away Alan’s cutback from the left. Spain’s problems were compounded by an injury to defender Jaume Mateu in the 35th minute. He had to be replaced by Victor Perea.

At the hour mark, Spain coach Santiago Denia brought on forward Jose Lara for midfielder Alvaro Garcia. In response, Denia’s Brazilian counterpart Carlos Amadeu threw in midfielder Rodrigo Guth for Victor Bobsin and defender Matheus Stockl for Lucas Halter. Brazil narrowed down their formation, forcing Spain into the wings.

In the 85th minute, Marcos Antonio found gaps in the right flank and broke away for Brazil. His pass to Paulinho, however, was intercepted by Alvaro. Spain earned a couple of free kicks in the dying minutes, but Brazil held on for the three points.