FIFA Women’s U17 WC: Murrieta the heroine as Mexico downs Brazil in Shootout to Clinch Third Place
FINAL SCORE (Pens): Mexico 3-1 Brazil after (1-1) regular time
Mexico emerged victorious over Brazil, coming from behind to win 3-1 in post match penalties, after the game ended one-all. The match culminated in the crowning of a heroine: Mexico’s goalkeeper, Valentina Murrieta, whose two crucial penalty saves earned her the Player of the Match award and secured silver medal for Mexico.
First Half: Brazilian Brilliance Meets Mexican Resilience
The girls of coach Rilany, started with impressive flair, dominating possession and showcasing their technical superiority. Brazil’s control nearly resulted in an early lead in the 8th minute when a beautifully executed give-and-go set up Evelin Bonifacio. Her powerful strike beat the goalkeeper but agonizingly struck the upright. She pounced on the rebound but could only poke the follow-up shot into the side netting.
Mexico, led by their skipper, Alexa Martinez relied on their defensive structure and physical presence. The tension was palpable when Mexico’s Samantha Ruiz was booked with a yellow card in the 18th minute, a clear sign of the game’s high stakes.
As the half progressed, Mexico began to press forward. In the 34th minute, they created a golden opportunity: Joselyn Solis Diaz unleashed a rugged strike that forced a sharp save from goalkeeper Ana Morganti. The rebound fell perfectly to Anaiya Miyazato, but her volley was bravely blocked from point-blank range.
Just before the first half whistle came, Brazilian defender Allyne endured a nervous moment, giving away possession. The resulting effort from Mexico’s Berenice Ibarra rattled the crossbar, ensuring the sides went into the break still locked at 0-0.
Second Half Drama and a Late Twist
The second half settled into a midfield battle punctuated by strategic substitutions from both benches. Brazil shuffled their lineup at the hour mark, and Mexico responded in the 65th minute, bringing on Defne Sanchez and Fernanda Monroy.
The deadlock finally broke when Brazil’s star midfielder, Kaylane (10), delivered the opening goal in the 77th minute. She received the ball on the plate and a simple tap-in took the ball into the net.
The drama, however, was far from over. At the cusp of full-time, after battling fiercely all game, Brazil suffered a moment of acute misfortune: Evelyn, who had impressed all game, flicked the ball past her own goalie.
Penalty Climax: Murrieta Rises to the Occasion
With the match ending one-all in regular time, the drama moved to the penalty spot. The spotlight immediately fell on Brazil’s key playmaker, Kaylane (10), who attempted a Neymar-esque effort—a clear feint—but her audacious spot-kick was saved by the determined Murrieta.
Though both sides missed subsequent chances (Valeria Alvarado for Mexico and Dulce Maria 18 for Brazil), Murrieta’s second massive save sealed the victory. The Mexican substitute, Fernanda Monroy, stepped up and coolly slotted the final penalty, securing the 3-1 shootout win and the bronze medal.
Post-Match Reactions
A jubilant Valentina Murrieta, recognized for her heroic efforts, reflected on the outcome:
“I am happy to have saved those penalties and helped my team to victory.”
Brazil coach Rilany was complimentary of her team’s spirit despite the loss:
“Brazil showed strength, we were superior for most parts. I am happy that my players had a good finish despite Mexico’s win.”
Mexico coach Miguel Gamero expressed deep satisfaction with his team’s ability to secure a silver medal:
“I’m satisfied to finish third in this competition. I am extremely happy with how my players played and our character throughout the competition.
