Champions Spain beat USA 3-1 in U-17 Women’s World Cup opener

The U.S. Under-17 Women’s National Team fought hard but lost 3-1 to Spain in their opening match of the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Despite a strong effort, the defending champions Spain proved too much to handle in the second half.

Spain started fast, taking the lead in just the third minute thanks to an unlucky own goal by U.S. defender Jocelyn Travers, who deflected the ball into her own net after a shot from Celia Segura hit the post.

However, the U.S. responded well, equalising in the 22nd minute with a brilliant strike from Melanie Barcenas. After a quick attack, Barcenas smashed a first-time shot from 16 yards out, scoring her third goal in 15 matches for the U-17s.

The two teams stayed level until the final 20 minutes. In the 70th minute, Spain regained the lead when Noa Ortega volleyed home after a rebound off the crossbar. The Spanish side sealed the win in the 83rd minute, with Alba Cerrato scoring from close range after a well-timed pass.

The defeat was the U.S.’s first in this tournament cycle, ending an unbeaten run of 10 matches. The Americans will now face Colombia on 19 October at Félix Sánchez Stadium in Santo Domingo. Colombia finished second at the 2024 South American U-17 Women’s Championship and was runner-up at the 2022 U-17 World Cup.

Spain, the most successful nation at the U-17 level, showed why they are two-time champions. They have now won two World Cup titles and five medals in total, along with five European championships. Their performance in this tournament confirms their reputation as favourites.

The USA will need a win against Colombia to stay in the hunt for a knockout stage spot, as Group B features tough competition.