Brazil cash in on ‘keeping howler

A goalkeeping error shifted the focus away from demotivated players in Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Mali in the Under-17 World Cup’s third place play-off here on Sunday.

The fact that Brazil don’t take third place play-offs seriously wasn’t lost on anybody. They were at full strength, suggesting they would pay the match due respect, but their intensity, or the lack of it, was evident, as they seemed to be going through the motions.

Fittingly, the match needed a howler to lift the spirits of the 56,422 in attendance, who were left exasperated till the 55th minute when Alan scored off a glorious ‘assist’ from Mali’s goalkeeper Youssouf Koita.

Substitute Yuri Alebrto added the second, catching Mali off guard at the back two minutes from regulation.

Both teams were conscious of not allowing the opposition space, and even if they did, poor judgement from players ruined their chances.

The teams took time to settle down. Brazil had a first shot at goal on the 16th minute.

Mali were more intent on playing down the middle. They exchanged quick one-twos and moved forward in numbers.

Their excellent build up were restricted at the top of the penalty box by the Brazilians, who stayed close to each other to crowd out the Africans. To find a way past the tightly-knit opposition, Mali attempted several long rangers, Salam Jiddou forcing out a save from goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao.

It kept the pressure on Brazil, who defended deep and were inclined to play on the counter, attempting several long range overhead passes to the left flank when full back Weverson pushed forward.

The story of near misses and foozled chances would have continued had it not been for an embarrassing error by Koita, who let in a feeble attempt by Alan through his legs.

The diminutive playmaker snatched the ball on Mali’s half, raced inside the box but produced a weak toe-poke that should have been a regulation take even for a 10-year-old.

But Koita’s effort to get down to pick up the ball was lethargic. Failure to keep his eyes on the ball till gathering it cleanly led to the ball slipping through into the net.

The goal infused some purpose into the proceedings, and several opportunities arose.

Brazil were happy with the one-goal lead, and attempted to wind down the clock, only for Alberto utilise the vast gaps left behind by a desperate Mali.