Hosts Brazil will be hoping to win their sixth FIFA U-17 World Cup on Sunday after they bounced back to defeat France 3-2 in the semi-final on Thursday in Brasilia.
Brazil crawled their way back in to action and snatched the victory from France who had thought they had everything worked out to reach the final.
France could have made the host to pay for their defensive lapses as Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga opened scoring for the European.
In the 13th minute, Nathanael Mbuku doubled Les Bleuets’ advantageafter splitting two defenders and ripping a low shot from 12 yards into the back of the net.
The French side were already hoping that their winning streak will continue, but they failed to take their destiny in their hands after the break.
The Selecao returned with more determination to avoid a defeat in front of their fans.
Kaio Jorges began the come back as he scored in the 62nd minute to give his side hope.
Fourteen minutes later, Brazil were leveled against France, this time it was a header from Veron
Goalkeeper Matheus Donelli’s assist from a goal kick found its way inside their opponent box as Lazaro did the needful to complete the comeback.
The first semi-final game between Mexico and the Netherlands, ended in favour of the North Americans who won 4-3.
Both teams played a 1-1 draw in regulation time as the match went straight to penalty shootout.
Mexico goalkeeper Eduardo Garcia was the hero of the day as he saved three penalties to send his team into the final.
He denied Mohamed Taabouni, Jayden Braaf and Youri Regeer to secure a fourth appearance for the North American champions in the showpiece match.
Sunday’s final will be an interesting one for both side as Brazil will be hoping to avenge their 2005 final defeat against Mexico.
