Canada Exits Women’s U17 World Cup After Tense Quarterfinal Penalty Shootout Loss to Brazil
Canada’s journey in the FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup concluded dramatically, as they faced Brazil in the quarterfinals. The match took place in Rabat, Morocco, and ended in a tense penalty shootout after both teams failed to score during regulation time.
Penalty Shootout Decides Canada’s Fate
The quarterfinal match reached penalties after a goalless 90 minutes. Brazil prevailed in the shootout, converting five out of six attempts. Gabi Pusch, Gi Iseppe, Kaylane, Pepe, and Andreyna successfully scored against Canadian goalkeeper Khadijah Cisse. Canada managed to score four penalties through Chloe Taylor, Amy Medley, Naomi Lofthouse, and Reed Tingley. However, Bridget Mutipula’s attempt was saved by Brazil’s goalkeeper, Ana Morganti, sealing Canada’s fate with a 5-4 shootout loss.
Match Overview
- Match Date: Saturday, October 21, 2023
- Location: Olympic Stadium, Rabat, Morocco
- Final Score: 0-0 (Brazil won 5-4 on penalties)
- Shots: Brazil 22, Canada 6
- Shots on Target: Brazil 7, Canada 2
Brazil’s dominance in offense was evident, especially in the first half, although they couldn’t break through Canada’s formidable defense. Despite outshooting Canada 7-2 in the first half, the Brazilian attack faltered against the Canadian backline.
Road to the Quarterfinals
Throughout the tournament, Canada had demonstrated impressive skill, outscoring opponents 18-2 before reaching the quarterfinals. They topped Group D, securing victories against Nigeria (4-1), Samoa (6-0), and France (2-1). In contrast, Brazil finished second in Group A, with a record that included a draw against Costa Rica.
Historic Context
This match marked Canada’s fifth appearance in the quarterfinals of the U17 championship, with previous trips in 2008, 2012, and 2014. They had previously only reached the semifinals once, in 2018, where they finished fourth. Brazil, on the other hand, had never advanced past the quarterfinals in their three prior attempts.
Coaching and Strategy
Head coach Jen Herst implemented changes to the starting lineup for this critical match, bringing in Emma Donnelly and Reed Tingley to replace Mya Angus and Daniela Feria-Estrada. Tingley made her return following a suspension.
As Canada exits the tournament, Brazil advances to face either North Korea or Japan in the semifinals. The path ahead promises more intense competition as teams vie for the championship.
