Soto scores again as Mexico exit U-17 Women’s World Cup

MIAMI – Mexico bid farewell to the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a 2-1 defeat against Kenya in Group C on Wednesday at Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Alexa Soto scored the lone Mexican goal from the penalty spot in the 90’+2, sending the ball to the bottom left corner, as the Concacaf nation bowed out of the tournament.

Valerie Nekesa opened the scoring in the 15’ to place Kenya in the lead.

Lornah Faith extended the advantage for Kenya in the 36’ with a left-footed shot in the box that finished in the upper right corner.

Mexico tried to respond in the 39’ with Berenice Ibarra striking from the top of the box but wide of the left post.

Abril Fragoso had a free kick attempt just before halftime, sending the ball just over the crossbar.

Kenyan defender Christine Adhiambo committed a foul in the box over Citlalli Reyes before the end of the match. The foul resulted in a penalty attempt for Mexico, allowing Soto to convert and cut the deficit in stoppage time.

Mexico ends its participation in Group C with an overall record of 0W-0D-3L against Korea DPR, England and Kenya. Soto finished as Mexico’s top scorer in the campaign with two goals in consecutive matches.