MARGAO
The Mexican football team lost 1-2 against Colombia in the concluding match of Group C of the U-17 Women's World Cup at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Tuesday.
Persistence pays off, and that was the case for Colombia, as their relentless pressure against a passive Mexican side was eventually rewarded, as midfielder Juana Ortegon's curling effort with the outside of her boot found the back of the net in the 41st minute. Colombia went into the second half with a 1-0 advantage.
Mexico did make a surge to get back in the game as Valerie Vargas almost scored but her free kick sailed over the crossbar. El Tri came close again when Valerie Vargas' shot went wide from close range.
Colombia upped the ante in the 74th minute when forward Linda Caicedo flicked the ball into the net off a well-measured cross from Elsa Gomez.
Down 0-2, Mexico went into attacking mode once again, as Valerie Vargas' stiff shot was blocked by the rival goalkeeper.
A corner in the 81st minute saw Mexican captain Alice Soto's attempt deflect past Linda Caicedo for an own goal to pull one back for the team.
Los Cafetros have progressed to the quarterfinal of the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup while Mexico will be going home disappointed having had more attacking opportunities but failing to convert any. Linda Caicedo of Colombia was declared player of the match.
