Dominican Republic, USA begin campaigns at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

MIAMI – The 2024 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup kicked off with two Concacaf nations taking center stage as part of opening day on Wednesday in the Dominican Republic.

Defending champions Spain began its quest for a third consecutive title by facing the reigning Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Championship winners United States. A tightly contested match went the way of the Europeans late in the game for a 3-1 U.S. defeat.

The hosts debuted to end the night in a 2-nil defeat to Ecuador. Jaslym Valverde shined with a brace to take the early lead in the top scorer race.

USA fall against back-to-back champions Spain

The United States lost 3-1 to Spain in Group B at Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The Europeans took the lead in the 3’ on an own goal from Jocelyn Travers. Spain forward Celia Segura stuck the ball off the right post before it bounced off the U.S. defender into the net.

Melanie Barcenas put the U.S. on level terms in the 22’ with a right-footed shot to strike a loose ball in the box.

Spain regained the lead in the 70’ after Noa Ortega struck inside the box from a rebound off the crossbar.

Alba Cerrato sealed the win for Spain in the 83’ after a great collective play allowed her to net the ball into the upper left corner.

The U.S. will step back on the field against Colombia on Saturday at Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo.

Hosts debut at U-17 World Cup 

The Dominican Republic lost 2-nil to fellow debutant Ecuador in Group A at the CFC Stadium in Santiago De Los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.

Jaslym Valverde opened the scoring in the 14’, pouncing on a rebound in the box after a strike from the right edge of the penalty area by Mary Guerra.

Valverde collected her brace in the 29’, connecting in the box with a cross from Fiorella Pico.

The Dominican Republic will return to the pitch against New Zealand on Saturday at CFC Stadium in Santiago De Los Caballeros. Both teams will be looking to earn their first points in the 2024 tournament.