South American champions, Brazil had their hands full in their Group D opener versus Republic of Ireland before securing a 2-1 victory at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar. The Brazilians dominated the first half, and would have had more than the one goal at the interval were it not for the outstanding play of Irish goalkeeper Grace Maloney.
It took the South Americans only four minutes to get themselves in front with Glaucia unleashing a powerful drive that Maloney could do nothing about. Ireland hauled themselves back into the contest in the second-half. A low cross from the right from Aileen Gilro picked out Siobhan Killen, who made no mistake, hitting the ball low and inside the post from outside the box in the 58th minute.
The goal did little more than taunt the Brazilians, who regained the lead three minutes later with Glaucia delightfully rounding her marker and curled home a glorious goal. The Irish put up a gallant fight but were unable to conjure an equaliser. Brazil will meet Ghana on Thursday and Republic of Ireland comes up against Canada in their second match also on Thursday. The Canadians and Ghana met in last night's second match at Malabar.
Yesterday's Fifa Under-17 Women's Results
Venue: Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva
Group C
Spain 4 (Iraia Perez 26th, Alexia Putellas 28th, Laura Gutierrez 41st, Raquel Pinel 56th) vs Japan 1 (Kumi Yokoyama 56th)
Venue: Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar
Group D
Brazil 2 (Glaucia 4th, 61st) vs Republic of Ireland 1 (Siobhan Killeen 58th).
