Spain U17 Women made a confident start to their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Chile U17 Women on Sunday. The Spanish side controlled possession for long spells and produced the kind of patient, technical performance that has become a hallmark of their youth teams.

Match overview

Spain took the lead after 18 minutes when Lucía Fernández curled a shot into the far corner from the left side of the box. Chile responded with energy and pressed higher, but Spain’s midfield kept finding pockets of space. The second goal arrived on 39 minutes, Fernández turning provider for Martina Ruiz, who finished first-time from close range.

Spain added a third on 67 minutes through Paula Gómez, who drove forward from midfield and placed a low effort beyond the goalkeeper. Chile pulled one back on 76 minutes when Antonia Silva capitalised on a defensive lapse and converted at the near post, but the South Americans could not build on the goal.

Key moments

• 18’ — Lucía Fernández opens the scoring with a precise curling finish.
• 39’ — Martina Ruiz doubles Spain’s lead after a fine assist from Fernández.
• 67’ — Paula Gómez adds a third with a powerful run from midfield.
• 76’ — Antonia Silva pulls one back for Chile with a close-range finish.
• 84’ — Spain goalkeeper denies Chile a second with a strong save.

Tactical story

Spain’s 4-3-3 shape allowed them to dominate the central areas, with Gómez and Ruiz rotating intelligently between the lines. Chile defended in a 4-4-2 block and tried to spring counter-attacks through Silva, but they struggled to maintain possession under pressure. Spain’s pressing was disciplined, and their ability to recover the ball quickly kept Chile pinned back for long periods.

Chile’s goal was a reminder of their threat on the break, but Spain managed the closing stages well, slowing the tempo and protecting their two-goal cushion.

Standout performers

Fernández was the standout player, scoring one and assisting another with a performance full of composure and creativity. Ruiz’s movement troubled Chile’s centre-backs all evening, while Gómez’s energy in midfield gave Spain control in transition. Chile’s Silva was their most dangerous outlet, and her goal rewarded a tireless display.

Group impact

The win gives Spain three points and an early advantage in their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup group. Chile will need to regroup quickly, but their second-half response offered encouragement. Spain’s next fixture will be a test of their consistency, while Chile must find a way to turn promising spells into points.