Fifa U-17 World Cup: Peru 2005

Thank you for visiting Peru!

2006-01-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

After a great U-17 World Cup in Peru, we want to thank to all the fans who visited the country to enjoy the tournament and the beautiful country we have. Our multi-ecosystem ground has several amazing areas. From snowy mountains to tropical forests, from hot deserts to mystical Inka ruins (like Machu Picchu) the tourist had the mos unforgettable adventure here in Peru. Now, from the cosmopolitan city of Lima, our staff wants to say thank you and give a warm hug to the whole world.

Barcelona elated with Mexican Dos Santos performance

2005-10-07T20:51:00.000-07:00

Barcelona chiefs are delighted with the impact Giovanni Dos Santos' success at the U17 World Cup has made in his home country of Mexico. Dos Santos, who is already being likened to Ronaldinho, captained Mexico to their first World Cup triumph this week, which led to wild celebrations across the country.

Barca already boasts football academies in Mexico and Dos Santos' popularity is sure to strengthen the club's name in the Central American country.

Dos Santos has been contracted to Barca since he was 13 years of age and even back then was a player many big clubs were aware of.

His father and agent, former Brazilian striker Zizinho, revealed: "There were many great clubs from Europe that wanted him. But we liked the option of Barcelona the best."

Dos Santos is now returning to take his place with Barca 'B', but could follow Lionel Messi's lead and be given a taste of first team action by coach Frank Rijkaard later this season.

Greatful Welcome to the World Champions in Mexico

2005-10-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Mexican President Vicente Fox greeted the U-17 national team for the World Cup they won over Brazil. The Mexican Team were invited by Fox to the President's house in Los Pinos. Hundreds of people went out all over the streets and followed the champions' bus way. The fans also were eager to welcome the teams at the international airport.

the reception surprised players and directives, who faced the mass that gathered around the bus. At the begining, the bus way was easy to drive, but on Morelos Avenue, thousand of persons started cheering up their team. They are now the proud of millions of mexicans who treat this young players for what they are: World Champions.

Mexico World Champions

2005-10-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

Mexico won the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 with an unquestionable 3-0 victory over reigning champions Brazil. Timely strikes from Carlos Vela, Omar Esparza and Ever Guzmán helped the Aztec side dominate proceedings and lift a FIFA World Championship crown for the first time in their history.

The opening minutes were very tight as both sides sized each other up. While Brazil had the better of the early possession, it was El Tri who almost grabbed the opening goal with a lighting fast counter attack. It was during these opening exchanges that an incident occurred that would shape the course of the game.

The Brazilian striker Anderson, who had been one of his side's leading players throughout the tournament, was forced to go off after just 15 minutes with a badly injured ankle. Without their orchestrator-in-chief, the Auriverde lacked incisiveness and clarity up front, allowing Mexico to take control of the game.

It came as no surprise when the young tricolores took the lead just past the half-hour mark, nor that the goal stemmed from their mercurial playmaker Giovanni Dos Santos. After peeling away from two defenders wide on the right, the Barcelona player swung in a textbook cross right-foot cross for Carlos Vela, who, after getting goal-side of his marker, put his diving header into bottom right-hand corner (1-0, 31').

While Mexico's opening goal had been on the cards for some time, their second caught almost everyone by surprise. César Villaluz won back possession after Brazil had restarted before floating a weighted ball through for Esparza. The young Chivas midfielder caught it first time, steering a dipping half-volley across Felipe and inside the far post (2-0 32').

With the North Americans keen to take their lead into the break, they sat back somewhat and allowed Brazil to seize the initiative. The defending champions tried valiantly to cut the deficit, but found Sergio Arias in excellent form. The gifted shot-stopper made two superb saves either side of half time to keep his side's two-goal lead intact.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Brazil failing to capitalise on their few chances and Jesús Ramírez's side content to soak up the pressure and wait for their chance on the break. When it finally arrived, it was fitting that the final word should go to the team's "super-sub" Ever Guzmán who, after being on the pitch for just ten minutes, scored his fourth of the competition after a quickly taken free kick (3-0 86'). It was to prove the death knell for Brazil and hand Mexico their first FIFA World Championship title.

After celebrating with his players at the final whistle, Mexico coach Jesús Ramírez said that hard work had been the key to his side's success: "In spite of the score line, it was not an easy game. I didn't expect such a resounding victory, as Brazil are a good side. I'm thrilled to have won this tournament. My players were fantastic and played as a team. In the end that made the difference."

Giovani dos Santos, Mexico's best player in Peru, could not contain his joy afterwards: "This game is going to change the history of Mexican football. This is the best day of my life." Team captain Patricio Araujo, who became the first Mexican to lift a FIFA world championship trophy, was on the verge of tears as he said emotionally: "This is something very few people ever do. This one is for you, Mexico!"

Brazil and Mexico to reach World Cup Glory

2005-10-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Brazil and Mexico will fight today to win the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 Final. In a game that has all the makings of a classic encounter, a newcomer to the big stage takes on the category's leading side, with kick-off scheduled for 18.00 (local time) in Lima's National Stadium. The game can confirm the power of current world champion Brazil or give an unexpected title to a surprising Mexican squad. Both sides have lost just one game, both have had to go to extra-time on at least one occasion, and both expect to go all the way. Brazil are looking to add a fourth U-17 world crown to their enviable trophy collection, while Jesús Ramírez's team aim to become the first Mexican national side at any level to land a FIFA World Championship.

El Tricolor are expected to line up with the same eleven that proved too strong for the Dutch. One player guaranteed a starting berth is influential playmaker Giovani Dos Santos, whose father happens to be Brazilian. "Playing against Brazil doesn't have any special significance for me, because I was born in Mexico and I feel one hundred percent Mexican. Having said that, a final against a team of this calibre is always something to look forward to," remarked the FC Barcelona player. Meanwhile, Carlos Vela will battle it out with Igor and Ramón to see who comes out on top of the goalscoring charts. "That's the goal I set myself when I set off from Cancun, and that's what I hope to achieve on Sunday," the Mexican striker said.

Starting Squads:

BRAZIL: Felipe; Leyrielton, Sidnei, Samuel, Marcelo; Roberto, Denilson, Anderson, Ramón; Celso, Igor. Coach: Nelson Rodrigues

MEXICO: Sergio Arias; Efraín Valdez, Patricio Araujo, Christian Sánchez, Adrián Aldrete; Jorge Hernández, Héctor Moreno, Omar Esparza, César Villaluz; Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Vela Coach: Jesús Ramírez

Turkey and Holland for the third place

2005-10-02T12:08:00.000-07:00

Netherlands coach Ruud Kaiser still remembers that sad final defeat against Turkey in Italy some months ago. "We wasted an incredible number of chances in the first half, and luck deserted us." Now the Oranje team have a chance at redemption in the third place play-off of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005.

Now that both teams have seen their dreams of World Championship glory shattered, it will be fascinating to see which of them can still focus and find the necessary motivation. The Dutch camp are still bitterly disappointed to have missed out on the final. "We were unfortunate against Mexico and it simply wasn't our day. It is a scandal that we are not in the final," claimed midfielder Niels Vorthoren. "The Mexicans converted every opportunity while we wasted a series of chances. I do not think Mexico were better than us."

It was scant consolation for the Dutch to be ranked among the best four U-17 teams in the world. "That is obviously satisfying but it is outweighed by the disappointment of missing the final." However, that is not to say the European Championship runners-up will be lacking in motivation: "The third place play-off is very important. We want to end the tournament on a high and the fact that we are playing Turkey gives us great motivation because it will be a chance for revenge for the European Championship final."

Blatter says: Perú 2005 has made history

2005-10-02T11:59:00.000-07:00

FIFA President Joseph Blatter arrived to Lima and said that Perú has made history in football because of managing the first World Cup played completely on artificial surface. "Artificial grass is the future, just like youth is the future for Perú" said Blatter at Peruvian president's House.

The most powerful man in soccer world is in Lima to assist to the Final game of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005.

Brazil wins dramatic Semifinal over Turkey

2005-09-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

Brazil won a thrilling FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 semi-final against Turkey in a seven-goal match. The ten-man Turks staged an amazing recovery from a 3-0 deficit at half-time to level the scores, but Brazil's Igor struck a last-minute winner to dash the Europeans' hopes of pulling off a minor miracle. The Final will now be between Brazil and Mexico, while Turkey play off for third against the Netherlands.

Turkey boss Abdullah Avci made one change to the team which triumphed 5-1 against China, Aydin Yilmaz replacing Ozgurcan Ozcan in the starting line-up. Brazil made two changes to the winning team from the quarter-final against Korea DPR, Samuel and Celso replacing Marcelo and the injured Renato.

Brazil could hardly have dreamed of a better start. With just 13 seconds on the clock, Anderson collected a wayward pass in midfield and supplied an inch-perfect lay-off for Celso to fire across Turkey keeper Volkan Babacan for the fastest goal of the tournament (0-1, 1). Turkey were visibly shocked by the dramatic opening and Brazil dominated the early exchanges, Ramon coming close but finding his way blocked on seven minutes.

Deniz Yilmaz had the Europeans' first opening after excellent build-up play from Tevfik Köse, but the striker's effort drifted narrowly wide. Prompted by Nuri Sahin and captain Erkan Ferin, the European champions finally began to settle after a quarter of an hour, but the South Americans had the more promising chances. Anderson's free-kick rebounded from the bar (17) before Brazil keeper Felipe comfortably gathered Sahin's shot two minutes later.

Anderson and Celso initiated a free-flowing move but Babacan turned Igor's shot round the post as the match continued to provide high-quality entertainment. Anderson set off on a mazy dribble a short time afterwards, skilfully evading the Turkish defence before clinically finding the net from 14 metres (0-2, 26) in a spectacular effort to mark the 100th goal at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005.

The Turkish rearguard was still allowing the Brazilians too much room as the South Americans continued to exploit their individual ability. Caner Erkin might have pulled one back immediately after Brazil's second, and the missed opening looked doubly costly when Marcelo fired in from a tight angle only for Babacan to deflect the ball over his own goal-line (0-3, 32). Aydin Yilmaz headed one of the few Turkish chances wide five minutes before the interval, before captain Ferin collected a second yellow card and his marching orders a minute into first-half stoppage time to rub salt into the wound of a dismal opening 45 minutes for the Turks.

However, the Europeans were first off the blocks in the second period, Erkin latching onto Kose's through ball to net from 15 metres (1-3, 47). Babacan denied Celso on 51 minutes but the Turks were in do-or-die mood now and Felipe pulled off a brilliant save from Kose on 55 minutes. Ramon failed to gain any reward from a mesmerising thrust down the left flank after 64 minutes, but the resilient Turks refused to roll over and die, displaying impressive morale and team spirit in the face of adversity.

Mexico in the Final Game

2005-09-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

Mexico achieved a historical victory when they swept aside the Netherlands in their semi-final at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 in Chiclayo (4-0). The El “Tri” surprised European squad and completely dominated their opponents, who came into the game with a weaker-than-usual defensive line that was hit with another injury after just four minutes. In contrast, Mexico was solid as a rock at the back and were led by the unique talent of Dos Santos going forward. They can now look forward to Sunday's final against Brazil to reach the greatest glory in Mexican history.

Mexico started using counter-attacks and almost broke the dutch deadlock from one when Cesar Villaluz collected the ball following a sublime one-two and sent a lob over Tim Krul. It was a fantastic effort, but he was ultimately denied by a brilliant headed clearance on the goal-line from Erik Pieters, on for Van der Kooij (12'). The Cruz Azul striker refused to be silenced though, and his second attempt sent his team in front. Advancing down the right wing, he shook off his marker and raced towards goal with a blistering burst of acceleration before unleashing a thunderous shot that caught Krul off guard (1:0, 33'). The local crowd, largely sympathetic to the cause of the tricolores, exploded with joy and admiration. "I got the ball on the wing, accelerated and shot hard inside the near post. I'll never forget that moment or this day," declared Villaluz, as he left the changing rooms with a wide grin on his face.

The Dutch defence were clearly suffering on their left, where Villaluz advanced with impunity, and he broke clear again five minutes before half-time, only to graze the crossbar with a shot (40'). Mexico soon doubled their lead after the break, though, and in quite stunning circumstances too. Giovani Dos Santos made to take a free-kick in a dangerous position, but rushed into the area instead and, after being fed with the ball, sent a perfect cross from the left for Hector Moreno to head in (2:0, 50'). It was a goal worthy of any professional outfit.
It seemed to be a fatal blow as far as the confidence of the Dutch players was concerned, and that impression was magnified when Niels Vorthoren somehow missed an open goal after profiting from good work from Diego Biseswar (55'). The Oranje were obviously not at their best, and minutes later Krul managed to throw the ball straight to Vela. The Guadalajara striker accepted his gift with gratitude and sent back a vicious shot that just fizzed wide (59').

The third goal was not long in coming, however, and once again Dos Santos made a telling contribution. His visionary pass picked out Villaluz deep inside the area, and the forward beat Krul to notch up his second strike of the evening (3:0, 61'). That sounded the death knell for the Netherlands' hopes of making it to the final, and, as their heads dropped, Ever Guzman took advantage to hit the target one last time in the final minute (4:0, 90'). The scoreline was harsh, yet there was no mistaking the sheer superiority of the Mexicans on the day. Now they must wait and see who they are to face in the final on Sunday, but whoever it is - either Brazil or Turkey - they will have their work cut out against Jésus Ramirez's charges.

Brazil gets an important victory over Korea (3-1)

2005-09-27T01:29:00.000-07:00

Brazil had to fight hard to win over Korea DPR on the extra time of their quarter-final clash at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. Often dominated during an intriguing match in Iquitos, the South Americans came through thanks to some merciless finishing, while their opponents suffered from naivety at the back and were unable to convert a whole raft of good chances. The Koreans nonetheless leave the competition with their heads held high, whereas Brazil can now look forward to facing Turkey in the last four.

After some first minutes of Brazilian control, Korea managed to get the ball and generate dangerous moves. The Canarinhos showed all their experience on the counter-attack, though, as Anderson slipped free on the left and cut back a gilt-edged pass to Ramon in the middle. The rest was straightforward, and it resulted in Ramon's fourth strike of the tournament (1:0, 48').

It was going to take more than that to dent the Asian side's belief, though, and Kim soon had Brazil in trouble as he led a lightning-quick break towards their goal. Embarrassing the entire defence with his movement, he then received the ball back from the wings and tried to work himself into a shooting position. He was unable to, but the ball cannoned around viciously in the area before the Aurivderde somehow cleared it to safety (72'). Their relief was nonetheless short-lived, and Korea DPR's efforts were finally rewarded when Myong Ho Choe whipped in a free-kick from the right that fell to Kim six metres out. Totally unmarked, the Rimyongsu striker calmly fired in the equaliser (1:1, 82').

That forced the game into extra-time, when the Koreans were once again the most creative team on show. But Brazil had clinical finishing on their side, and they went back into the lead following a clever one-two on the edge of the area between Ronaldinho clone Celso and Mauricio. Back from suspension after missing the last two matches, Celso collected the ball from his colleague and rifled a shot into the far corner (2:1, 97').

Korea DPR were struggling with exhaustion by this point, but they continued to surge forward at every opportunity. As a result, they left themselves vulnerable to counter-attacks, and they were eventually made to pay when Igor finished off a move from Ramon (3 :1, 120'), thus guaranteeing his side a place in the semi-finals against Turkey in Trujillo on 29 September.

Netherlands got to the Semifinals

2005-09-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

The Netherlands entered into the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 after beating the USA 0:2 in a breathtaking match. Jeffrey Sarpong scored twice for the european team.

The game began intensely with the Netherlands dictating the pace. John Goossens sent a deep cross from midfield into the run of Diego Biseswar, only for the Feyenoord Rotterdam striker to kick the ball out beyond the far post (4'). The Americans did not have to wait long for their first chance, Preston Zimmermann firing over (8') after meeting a corner on the volley. The USA were growing in confidence and Quavas Kirk also shot over the bar just a minute later. A horrific incident followed when Kevin Alston left the field with a broken left tibia after a John Goossens foul (16').

Interrupted by the US player's untimely departure, the game lost momentum slightly and it was 15 minutes before entertainment resumed. Jeffrey Sarpong missed a good opportunity from 15 yards (38') before Kirk was thwarted by the assured goalkeeping of Tim Krul (39'). David Arvizu then found himself in a good position three against two shortly before the interval but Krul held safely on to his shot (43'). Just when the first half appeared certain to end in stalemate, the Netherlands struck: Vurnon Anita did the groundwork, and Sarpong fired home from eight yards to score the 0:1.

Neven Subotic's dismissal for a second yellow card with a quarter of an hour to play was a set-back for the US recovery effort, but Dutchman Jordi Buijs restored the balance in personnel when he also received a second yellow for a foul (78'). Jeremy Hall then sent a free-kick flying narrowly wide (79') before the decisive second goal came six minutes from time: Sarpong soared down the left wing, crowning his fine solo run with an ice-cool finish (0:2, 84'). Vormer could have made the result even more emphatic with a headed chance (89') before Sarpong missed a hat-trick opportunity (90').

Mexico defeats Costa Rica in Concacaf Derby

2005-09-27T01:06:00.000-07:00

Mexico made a last-second equaliser to force extra-time before beating brave Costa Rica in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005 at the Miguel Grau Stadium in Piura.

The much-heralded Mexicans, who will now face either the United States or the Netherlands the semi-finals in Chiclayo on Thursday, seemed destined to be heading out until two minutes from the end of normal time when they clawed their way back into the game and eased past the Costa Ricans as they tired in the decisive phase of the game.

There was more than a touch of good fortune about events when Costa Rica broke the deadlock after 67 minutes. In fact, it was truly bizarre. Esteban Rodrigues clipped in a hopeful corner, but Mexico substitute Edgar Andrade seemed to have it easily covered until his attempted clearance skewed horribly off his left boot. Defender Efrain Valdez could not keep the sliced, misdirected 'shot' out with his head despite a desperate attempt to clear it off the line and he was credited with the strangest of own goals (1:0, 67').

To their credit, Costa Rica withstood intense pressure well and retained enough menace on the counter-attack to leave Mexico under no illusions that they had a real fight on the hands to stay in a tournament they had previously vowed to win.

Costa Rica finally capitulated with just two minutes remaining and this time it was Mexico who had the rub of the green when it came to being fortunate as Valdez saw his shot from the edge of the box take a hefty deflection in a crowded penalty area and find its' way into the corner of the net to force extra time (1:1, 88').

Almost as soon as that got underway, Mexico classily fired their way into the lead, with Villaluz releasing supersub striker Guzman, who cracked an unstoppable, thunderbolt drive high past the helpless Quesada at his near post (1:2, 92').

Vela made matters safe for the Mexicans by heading well past the advancing Quesada to make it three just before the end of the first period of additional time (1:3, 105').

Favorite Turkey wins over China

2005-09-27T00:59:00.000-07:00

Turkey got an unquestionable victory over China in their quarter-final match at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. The Iquitos fans witnessed a dominant display from the Turks that left a doughty asian squad reeling, and few would argue with the view that the European champions are now among the main favourites for the global title. They can now start preparing for the semi-finals, where they will face either Brazil or Korea DPR in Trujillo on 29 September.

"We gave our 100% as always and performed to a very high level," enthused Turkish coach Abdullah Avci after beating chinese team. "I'm glad and proud of the way we played, especially because it provided the crowd with some great entertainment. And that makes me pleased because the people of Iquitos have been very warm towards us. I'd really like to salute them."

A tropical weather greeted spectators and players alike in Iquitos, and it soon became clear that Turkey were more comfortable plying their trade in the 36°C heat. Ozgurcan Ozcan signalled their intent with an effort from the left with only six minutes on the clock, and the Ottomans did not have to wait long before finding the back of the net. Tevfik Kose was the player responsible for the breakthrough and he displayed great talent when, after being set free on the right by Nuri Sahin, he breezed past Cao Gu, cut inside and blasted his shot in at the near post (1:0, 10'). In spite of the sweltering temperatures, the public were quick to show their approval.

China struggled to get to grips with the encounter, but encouraged by the fantastic atmosphere generated by around 25,000 fans, they did their level best to hit back. Xuanhong Wang found himself in a decent position soon after when a free-kick eventually fell at his feet. Unfortunately, his shot flew harmlessly wide (16').

That was more danger than Turkey were prepared to countenance though, and they rapidly set about putting the game out of their opponents' reach. Ozcan worked himself into space on the left, only to fail to spot Sahin lurking unmarked in the middle (25'), but some nifty teamwork eight minutes later would more than make up for that lapse. Sahin whipped in a corner, Deniz Yilmaz flicked on at the near post and Caner Erkin was presented the easy task of stabbing the ball into an empty net (2:0, 33'). The calm assuredness of the Turks was impressive to watch and the Chinese looked set for more misery as long as they remained completely invisible in midfield.

Final Results

2005-09-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

These are the last results of the first stage in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005. The quarterfinals will begin on September 23.

Group A

Ghana - China 1-1

Perú- Costa Rica 0-2

Group B

México - Turkey 1-2

Uruguay -Australia 1-2

Group C

Côte d'Ivoire - USA 1-1

Korea DPR – Italy 1-1

Group D

Netherlands - Gambia 2-0

Brazil - Qatar 6-0

Brazil and Netherlands win Group D

2005-09-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

Group D could hardly have had a worse start for the defending champions as they lost 3:1 to Gambia, though their defeat of the Netherlands was hailed as one of the greatest games in the championship and that turned fortunes around for coach Nelson Rodrigues and his team. A closing 6:0 goal fiesta against Qatar rocketed them to the top of the group and there is every reason to suspect that a side which looked in true danger of early elimination may yet go all the way back to the final again. Everybody expects the Brazilians to be skilful and so it is with this selection, with winger Anderson arguably the pick of the bunch. His performance against Holland was especially noteworthy, as was that of goalkeeper Felipe, who seems destined for an extremely bright future. Team captain Denilson is an inspired leader, while the goals of Ramon and Igor could provide the platform for a successful title defence.

Italy fails as USA and Korea go to the next stage

2005-09-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

No one could have predicted the final positions in Group C at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. For in Chiclayo, it has been the quality of the Americans and the Koreans that has risen to the top. The stars and stripes have come out playing a slick, no-nonsense game, while the Koreans recovered from a stuttering start to showcase their main assets of frightening pace and technical prowess.

After loosing the classification against Korea (1:1), italian coach said: "We gave away goals by pushing too many people forward. It was very special to take part in the tournament, though. I would like to thank FIFA, the organisers and the wonderful people of Peru. We played three very tough games at the highest level. It has been a tremendous experience for my players and it's heartbreaking to have to say goodbye."

Host Peru out of the Tournament

2005-09-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica defeated Peru by 2:0 in Iquitos and got their ticket for the next stage as the winner of Group A. The “Ticos” outclassed the local squad and their victory was fair, thanks to Jean Carlo Solórzano and César Elizondo goals.

Although their fate also depended on the other Group A game result between Ghana and China, the hosts knew they were in with a chance. They had Geovanny Alfaro's men pinned back in the early exchanges to the delight of the vociferous home support. Costa Rica, for their part, did their best to take the sting out of the game with their trademark short passing, but looked uncomfortable every time Josepmir Ballón and Gianfranco Espejo linked up in attack. Once again, Peru's most dangerous attacking weapon was Daniel Chávez who, first with a pair of well-struck headers, and later with a long-range effort, threatened to give the home side the lead.

As the game wore on and the Amazon heat began to take its toll, Peru were forced to reduce the tempo somewhat. In spite of that, they still managed to fashion two gilt-edged chances. First Miguel Cárdenas dragged his shot wide of the near post when one-on-one with the Tico keeper Alfonso Quesada. Then Christian Laura swung in a delightful cross from the right for Gianfranco Espejo, but the Sporting Cristal midfielder chose to try a headed pass instead of going for goal and the danger passed.

For all of that, the Central Americans had designs of their own on the three points, and went ahead with their first clear-cut chance on the stroke of half-time. Celso Borges got in behind Cristian Ramos Garagay and picked out Jean Solórzano, who fired unerringly across Gian Franco Castellanos into the corner (1:0, 46'). For the crowd at the Max Augustin it was devastating blow and a cruel way to end the first half. "Peru showed what a good team they are and played a great game. They were unable to capitalise on the chances they made in the first half, and we grew in confidence. Fortunately, we struck just at the right time," explained Geovanny Alfaro afterwards.

Both sides ran out unchanged for the second half, and the game fell back into its early pattern. José Pavoni's men again took the initiative as they went in search of the equaliser, although clear-cut chances were at a premium. One of these fell to Jesús Rey, who very nearly got his head to a long throw-in from Laura. Geovanny Alfaro's side kept their shape though, and continued playing to their strengths with slow and careful passing, much to the frustration of the impatient and increasingly concerned Peruvian supporters who must have been fearing the worst after Carlos Flores contrived to put his header wide from just in front of goal.
Pavoni sent on strikers Carlos Elías and Javier Carnero trying to change the story, but far from having the desired effect, it merely served to enhance the reputation of Costa Rica's stand-out defenders Rudy Dawson and Brayan Jiménez. For their part, the Ticos came close with a Borges effort, which drew a wonderful save from Castellanos and deserved applause from the public. Peru hit back through Espejo, but his powerful right-foot shot from a free-kick went narrowly wide.

Alfaro then threw César Elizondo, Costa Rica's star player in the qualifying tournament, into the fray and the move paid immediate dividends. After a mix up in the Peruvian defence, the striker found himself face-to-face with Castellanos, who he beat coolly with a shot inside the near post (2:0, 76'). After that there was no way back for Peru, whose evening was summed up when Carnero struck a post late on. Appreciative of their brave efforts, the Peruvian public proudly cheered off their fallen heroes as they bade farewell to their dreams of glory.

China wins 1-0 over host Peru

2005-09-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

China edged host Peru 1-0 to gain the upper hand in the group phase at the FIFA U-17 world championships Tuesday. A shot from 30 meters out by left back Deng Zhuoxiang helped China to settle the advantage in Group A where the victory becomes the first match to have a winner as the tournament enters its second round.

Peru coach José Pavoni sent out an unchanged line-up for the second match at the tournament. China made one alteration to their starting formation, defender Nanri Cui replacing suspended Gu Cao.

Roared on by the partisan home crowd, the Peruvians set off at a furious pace only for the Andean express to come off the rails after 13 minutes, Deng Zhuoxiang beating keeper Gian Franco Castellanos all ends up with a 25-metre drive bristling with controlled menace (0:1, 13). The Chinese came within a whisker of doubling their advantage just three minutes later after a slick one-two found Yang Xu hovering near the penalty spot, but the striker's shot with the outside of the boot struck the upright.

China lead the group with four points, followed by Ghana and Costa Rica, both having two points with one game left.

China next play Ghana while Peru take on Costa Rica in the Group where qualifiers may be decided by goals difference.

China’s goalkeeper Wang Dalei, also a Player of the Tournament at the Asian U-17 Championship, is banned from the decisive clash with Ghana after having collected two yellows.

USA outplays Italy 3-1

2005-09-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

It was a very thrilling game when USA ran out 3-1 winners over Italy in the top-of-the-table clash in Elias Aguirre Stadium (Chiclayo) on 20 September. For all their physical strength, the Italians never got to grips with the USA's diminutive strikers, and despite a late rally after the sending-off of Salvatore Foti, they can have few complaints about the result. The Squadra must now face and defeat Korea DPR to be sure of a place in the quarterfinals, while the Americans can take on Côte d'Ivoire calm in the knowledge that they are safely through.

"Our players managed to execute our plans perfectly," explained John Hackworth after the game. "We wanted to put them under pressure right from the start and we played very well in the first half, even though we failed to score. We kept at it though, and it paid off. Then we resisted their pressure very well at the end."

With so much at stake, the tactics employed by both teams were always going to be important and it was with great interest that onlookers waited to see what changes the opposing coaches would announce. Both had been tight-lipped, but on the day John Hackworth opted to start Nik Besagno in place of Amaechi Igwe in the heart of his defence, while Francesco Rocca scrapped the three-man rearguard he had tried against the Ivorians. Reverting to a classic 4-4-2, the Italian boss dropped excellent midfielder Matteo Mandorlini to accommodate Manuel Angelucci at the back.

As a result, and no doubt due to the searing heat as well, there were no openings to speak of in the early stages of the game. The only excitement, in fact, was provided by the mascot, Vicky, who made sure to keep the crowds amused from the touch-line. On the pitch, meanwhile, jet-heeled American playmaker David Arvizu attempted to unsettle the Azzurri defence, and he came within inches of intercepting a poor back-pass before Enrico Alfonso launched himself at the ball (19').

Arvizu then found himself in an even better position moments later, after a well-worked counter-attack and a clever pass from Preston Zimmerman left him one-on-one with Alfonso. With the fans on their feet, he somehow contrived to screw his effort wide of the far post (32'). The Pateadores ace did not have to wait too long for another chance, however, and it came to him from a corner. Having beaten his marker for pace, he worked himself into space to unleash a shot, but was still unable to hit the target (39'). The USA's dominance was almost total, yet anything looked possible as long as they remained wasteful in front of goal. "Naturally, I'm a bit disappointed I didn't score," explained Arvizu. "I was unlucky, but my buddies scored and that's what's important."

Brazil comes back to life after defeating Netherlands

2005-09-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Brazil defeated the Netherlands by 2-1in Group D at the Miguel Grau Stadium, Piura. This result let southamericans keep their hopes of defending their FIFA U-17 World Championship title.

Brazilian coach Nelson Rodrigues said that the match was tremendously exciting, but added: "It must have been great for everyone to watch the game, but for me there was too much at stake. It was a hard fight and there was a high price to pay watching it."

Brazil, clearly smarting from their shock defeat against Gambia, started the game concentrated and brilliant, causing numerous problems for the Dutch almost from the kick-off. Skipper Denilson brought a great reflex save out of Tim Krul after only two minutes, but the main threat came from down the right flank, where Anderson gave the Netherlands nightmares.

He dragged the ball wide of goal when he should have hit the target, though the real danger was posed by his series of teasing, inswinging free-kicks. They tested the outstanding Krul to the limit, but he was to be beaten by one of them as Igor gave his nod of approval by heading home the opening goal (0:1, 8').

Krul was called upon to keep the Dutch in the match many times in the opening stages as Brazil ran the Netherlands ragged and their coach Ruud Kaiser was forced into a tactical substitution as early as the 21st-minute, bringing Tom Hiariej on for Jordy Buijs.

Holland started without key striker Marvin Emnes as he had a stomach upset and the Netherlands did not look like they would be able to pose any threat to Brazil, but as the half wore on they grew in confidence and gradually forced their way into proceedings.

First John Goossens broke menacingly down the left hand side and fired across the Brazilian goalmouth, though nobody was on hand to turn the centre home. However, the winger was instrumental in the Netherlands' equaliser when it came soon afterwards.

The Ajax striker sprinted down the centre chasing a hopeful pass and put Brazil defender Sidnei under so much pressure he lofted the ball over stranded Santos keeper Felipe for an own goal (1:1, 28').

Now it was Felipe's turn to feel the heat, saving well from Diego Biseswar, who then also curled the ball just wide before Jeffrey Sarpong brought an outstanding stop from the Brazilian number one.

The second half began much the same way as the first, with Brazil assuming the upper hand and making Newcastle United goalkeeper Krul the busiest man on the pitch. Krul made one great save from midfielder Ramon, but was then left helpless on the hour mark when the same player artfully slipped the ball past him by side-footing into the corner of the net (1:2, 60').

Kaiser quickly turned to Emnes and brought him on for Mitchell Schet to liven up the Dutch attack again and he dribbled his way through into a fabulous shooting position, but Felipe was once more on top form to block him and Vurnon Anita could only bundle the rebound wide.

Renato almost extended Brazil's lead with a curling free-kick that brushed past Krul's post, who then had his crossbar rattled by a thundering drive from Leyrielton and Ramon should have done much better with the follow-up, but he failed to take advantage.

In keeping with the pattern of this pulsating ebb and flow game, Goossens struck the Brazil bar with an incredible curler from distance, but Brazil emerged victorious, leaving both sides battling for qualification on three points with one game to go.

Holland would seem to have the tougher task as they take on group leaders Gambia in Lima on Friday, with Brazil facing the already-eliminated Qatar in Trujillo on the same day.

Netherlands coach Ruud Kaiser agreed that Brazil and Gambia are the favourites to go through now and he said: "I think Brazil will beat Qatar and get six points, so we are now in a very bad situation because if Gambia gets a draw against us, we are out. We have to win and then there will be three teams with six points, but Gambia is a very strong team. They have already beaten Brazil 3:1, so what can I say?"

Latest Results:

2005-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

Group A

Ghana - Costa Rica 1-1

Perú- China 0-1

Group B

Uruguay- Turkey 2-3

México -Australia 3-0

Group C

Côte d'Ivoire - Italy 3-4

Korea DPR – USA 2-3

Italy – USA 1-3

Côte d'Ivoire - Korea DPR 0-3

Group D

Netherlands - Qatar 5-3

Brazil - Gambia 1-3

Qatar - Gambia 1-3

Netherlands - Brazil 1-2

Turkey wins and sends Uruguay home

2005-09-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Turkey defeated Uruguay and grabbed a place in the next stage of the FIFA U-17 World Championship. The thrilling 2:3 win over Group B rivals Uruguay at Lima's National Stadium was also convenient for Mexico, winners earlier in the day, who now join the European champions in the knock-out stages. For Uruguay and Australia, second successive defeats mean the end of their Peruvian dreams, and there will be no more than pride at stake when the pair meet in their final game.

The european squad started in determined fashion, knowing that only a win would guarantee them a place in the last eight. It came as no surprise to see them bossing the game early on and trying to monopolise possession. Leading the charge for Abdullah Avci's men was Nuri Sahin, who orchestrated all his side's best attacking moves. The first clear-cut chance fell to Tevfik Kose, who tested Jonatan Irrazabal's reflexes with a stinging left-foot drive. Next to ask a question of the Celeste keeper was Deniz Yilmaz, but he too was denied. However, the Galatasaray midfielder made no mistake with his second chance, rising high above the defence to head deftly home from a corner on the left.

The goal seemed to wake the Uruguayans out of their slumber. Soon they were competing for every ball and creating their own chances thanks to the audacity of Enzo Scorza and the power of Elías Figueroa. The striker, who was the leading scorer in the South American qualifying tournament, was not at his ruthless best, squandering two glorious chances to beat Volkan Babacan. The Turkish keeper, sharp throughout the first half, was later called on to fingertip Scorza's spectacular effort wide for a corner.

However, the Charrúas' efforts would soon be rewarded. Gerardo Vonder Putten broke free down the left before firing a powerful ball into the six-yard box. Babacan could do no more than parry the cross, and Murat Duduer, in a desperate effort to clear his line, ended up putting though his own goal (1:1, 28'). Buoyed up by their equaliser, the South Americans then pressed for a second, which they would have got had Martín Díaz been able to steer his shot home from just a few yards out.

Uruguay continued to take the game to their European opponents, who seemed content to wait for their chances on the break. It was one such counter attack that almost put Turkey ahead, but Kose saw his right-foot effort smartly saved by Irrazabal.

Both sides came out unchanged for the second half, with Turkey enjoying the best of the early chances. Abdullah Avci's men even thought they had gone ahead through Kose at the near post, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Shaken by the scare, Uruguay hit back with a Marcel Román cross which the unmarked Gary Kagelmacher contrived to head wide. Abdullah Avci then decided to bring on Ferhat Bikmaz, and the midfielder made an immediate impact. First with a run and pass that Yilmaz narrowly failed to finish, and later with a powerful header that clattered off the crossbar and out of play.

The best was still to come. First Uruguay got their noses in front when Elías Figueroa capped some fine interplay in the Charrúa attack with a superbly struck left-footer (2:1, 75'). The South Americans' joy was short-lived however, with second-half substitute Ozgurcan Ozcan intent on spoiling the part. The Galatasaray striker raced onto a long pass, sliding his effort past Irrazabal (2:2, 80'). Before Gustavo Ferrín's men had time to gather themselves, Turkey were ahead. This time it was Kose who showed composure in front of goal as he fired his side in to the lead (2:3, 84').

With Abdullah Avci's men hanging on to their precious lead, the final minutes of the match were nerve-wracking in the extreme. Uruguay threw everything they had at Babacan's goal, but it held firm. The win and the night belonged to Turkey.

"We played with a lot of heart, and I think we deserved more than this. A year and a half's hard work went into this, and now we're leaving empty-handed. Nonetheless, we'll give everything we have in our final game and hopefully leave on a high," said an inconsolable Gustavo Ferrín afterwards.

Italy wins a dramatic Match

2005-09-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

Italian squad started the competition with a victory over Côte d'Ivoire. Chiclayo was the place for the opening match in Group C of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. Seven goals were shared between Italy and Côte d'Ivoire, including three in the last four minutes, as the hugely-entertaining clash finally swung in the European side's favour. It was a bitter outcome for the Ivorians, but they have many reasons to remain optimistic after a display of superb technique, and they must now confirm their potential against Korea DPR on 20 September. As for the Italians, they will be brimful of confidence as they prepare to face the USA.

In true South-American style, and due no doubt to the early kick-off as well, the Elías Aguirre stadium was slow in filling up on Saturday morning. The latecomers will have been chiding themselves, however, as the eagerly-awaited game wasted no time in springing to life. And with the physically powerful but supremely-organised Italians ranged in one corner and the masters of rapid one-touch play from Côte d'Ivoire in the other, it was hard to imagine the sheer opposition of styles producing anything other than a fascinating 90 minutes.

Gambia beats the World Champions

2005-09-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

Gambia shocked the world and are the first surprising team of Peru 2005. They defeated current champion Brazil by 3-1.

Brazil hit first at 22th minute when Igor mede an spectacular jump to score the first goal. The south american team was playing better than Gambia, but as minutes passed by, africans started ruling on the field. Mansally and Ceesay scored for Gambia in as the first time finished. At 74 minute, Ousman Jallow scored the last one.

It was a remarkable team performance, but one player stood literally head and shoulders above the rest - the imposing, gigantic figure of Momodou Ceesay, who scored one and played havoc with the Brazilian defence all evening.

All the First Day Matches

2005-09-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

Group A

China- Costa Rica 1-1

Perú-Ghana 1-1

Group B

Uruguay- México 0-2

Turkey-Australia 1-0

Host Peru couldn't beat Ghana

2005-09-17T14:43:00.000-07:00

Hosts Peru drew 1:1 with two-time FIFA U-17 world champions Ghana in the second Group A fixture at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. The Peruvians dominated throughout and created a string of presentable openings, but a combination of poor luck and Nana Bonsu's superb goalkeeping prevented Peru from starting with a win.

To add insult to injury, the Africans sealed a point courtesy of an own goal. Following the earlier 1:1 draw between China and Costa Rica, all four Group A teams lie dead level in the standings with the same number of points and goals.

A crowd numbering some 25,000 saw a furious opening featuring a seventh-minute red card for Ghana's Mubarak Wakaso after a touchline foul on Carlos Flores. Just minutes later, Ghana keeper Nana Bonsu upended Peru striker Jesus Rey in the box. Daniel Chavez stepped up to convert from the spot as the crowd erupted to hail the hosts' opener (1:0, 12'). The African championship runners-up were in disarray at this point, with huge questions asked of their ability to recover.

"I reckon it was a very harsh red card. I'm not even sure it was worthy of a booking, because my player went for the ball. I can't honestly be satisfied with the result because we came here looking to win. Every team has exactly the same prospects for the next round of games, it's as if the tournament was starting again from scratch," Ghana coach David Duncan commented afterwards.

Peru continued to hold the initiative, but Ghana clawed their way back into it and created their first chance as captain Emmanuel Ansong burst forward only for his 17th minute effort to clear the bar. Coach Duncan reshuffled his side to compensate for the sending off, withdrawing striker George Appiah and introducing defender Jonathan Quartey to stiffen the defence.

The Ghanaians settled now and began sporadically troubling the Peruvian rearguard, but the hosts coached by José Pavoni still enjoyed the lion's share of the chances. Jesus Rey delivered a perfect angled pass for Chavez but Bonsu raced from goal to clear midway through the half. The two-time U-17 world champions raced up the other end but James Tagoe was narrowly off-target.

Daniel Chavez opens the scoring from the penalty spot as Peru take on Ghana in Group A at the FIFA U-17 World Championship in Trujillo on September 16. The first half closed with a flurry of action as Sadat Burkari fired over the bar before David Telfer and Tagoe conjured up a golden opportunity for Samad Oppong, just inches short of connecting at the far post.

Peru's first chance after the restart felt to Miguel Cardenas but Bonsu maintained his fine form and pushed the goal-bound effort round the post. Gianfranco Espejo's prod rebounded from the upright after an almighty goalmouth scramble as the hard-working Ghanaians enjoyed a healthy slice of good fortune. Up the other end, Bukari muscled his way to the right edge of the area on the hour but Peru keeper Gian Franco Castellanos blocked.

Lady luck again smiled on the Africans as they were gifted an equaliser after an hour, Miguel Cardenas putting through his own goal from an attempted clearance (1:1, 62'). Ghana boss Duncan cut an animated figure on the touchline as he and his side sensed an unlikely victory.

However, the hosts regained the initiative in the closing quarter of an hour. Bonsu tipped Carlos Flores' 70th minute drive over the bar and the Africans held on for the draw, thus maintaining an impressive record of seven FIFA U-17 World Championship opening matches without defeat.

The next matchday features Peru against China, with Ghana facing Costa Rica.

Peru boss José Pavoni was not unhappy with the result. "I was very pleased with the way we played in the second half. We can live with a draw against the strongest team in the group, although we were close to taking all three points."

Artistic Opening Ceremony for U-17 World Championship Peru 2005

2005-09-17T14:26:00.000-07:00

Mansiche Stadium in Trujillo waas the scenario of the colorful welcome ceremony for the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005. The stage queen was current Miss World Maria Julia Mantilla, and the music was of Pedro Suarez Vertiz and his Official Anthem for this competition.

25 thousand people crowded the stadium of the northern city of Trujillo and watched the artistic ceremony played by 400 volunteers. A throng of dancers, stilt-walkers and acrobats, some clad in red and others in a wide array of outsized costumes, delighted the festival crowd with a performance showing off Peru's rich cultural tradition, transforming the arena into a riot of colour and movement to the strains of the Peruvian marine band.

Watched by FIFA General Secretary Dr. Urs Linsi, the spectators applauded rapturously and clapped in time to the music as 16 artistes ceremonially bore the flags of the 16 participating nations into the stadium.

The 15-minute pageant concluded with the artistes gathering on the running track to salute the crowd in the main stand, before marching from the stadium to usher in a spectacular pyrotechnic display, the fireworks lighting up the Trujillo sky in a glorious finale to an uplifting and colourful opening.

SmartBall kicks off in Peru

2005-09-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

It's not an ordinary football. It is Adidas new release "smartball" and it'll make its official debut in the FIFA Under-17 world championship in Peru. This soccer ball is fitted with a tiny microchip designed to help a referee decide whether the ball has crossed the line completely for a goal to be scored - and will also be used to determine whether the ball has gone out of play.

FIFA president Josepp Blatter, traditionally a staunch opponent of technology, has given his blessing to the experiment in Peru and has said that if it is successful, it can be used in the World Cup finals in Germany next summer.

The ball was unveiled in Lima before the tournament starts on Friday and FIFA Secretary-General Urs Linsi told Reuters the "smartball" and so-called goal-line technology, developed by Adidas with German company Cairos AG and the German Fraunhofer Institute - was in no way a substitute for the eyes and experience of the referee.

RADIO SIGNAL

"The referee is in charge, he's the boss on the pitch and that won't change. This is an aid to the referee," he said.

The microchip -- less than half an inch in size -- sends out a radio signal when the ball crosses the touchline, as if it had touched an electric fence.

That signal is relayed by up to 12 antennae positioned in the corners of the pitch to a computer which then sends a message to a watch worn on the referee's wrist in less than one second, Guenter Pfau, Adidas' manager for relations with FIFA, told Reuters.

The message makes a virtually inaudible signal and the referee need never even use the technology, unless he is in doubt, Pfau said.

If so, a quick glance at the watch will reveal the word "goal" or no message, indicating no goal. Any goal messages are stored in the watch's memory with the time logged.

FINAL SAY

Linsi said the referee would always have the final say and could ignore even a goal message from the smartball.

The 16-nation Under-17 championship kicks off on Friday with Uruguay playing Mexico in Lima and ends on Oct 2.

Matches will be played in five venues equipped with the latest artificial turf. The smartball will be used in all games except those played in the northern jungle city of Iquitos because the stadium was not ready in time, Pfau said.

The smartball's signal cannot be disturbed by radios or cellphones. "It's encrypted, it can't be hacked into," he added.

The smartball has been tested once, in February, at an unofficial friendly in Nuremberg, but Friday will be its first official outing.

BOARD GAMES

Members of the International Football Association Board -- soccer's ultimate law-making body -- will travel to Peru to see the experiment in some of this month's games.

A report will then be submitted to the next meeting of the Board in the spring and if the experiment has been deemed a success a decision will be taken on whether it will be used in the World Cup finals in Germany next summer.

Blatter told journalists in London earlier this month that there might be no need for the technology to determine a goal at all in Peru.

"There might not be one incident where there is a doubt," he said, "it could happen, but if it does, we can arrange a match outside the tournament using the technology and set up a situation to test it."

Along with hosts Peru, the 15 other competing countries are China, Qatar, North Korea, Ghana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Italy, Turkey, Netherlands, United States, Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Australia and Costa Rica.

FIFA U'17 World Championship Peru 2005: The Groups Matches

2005-09-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

The World Cup Peru 2005 will begin this friday. Here you can find the matches schedule for the first group stage:

Group A:

16 Sep 05 17:00 in Trujillo CHN - CRC
16 Sep 05 20:00 in Trujillo PER - GHA
19 Sep 05 15:30 in Trujillo GHA - CRC
19 Sep 05 18:15 in Trujillo PER - CHN
22 Sep 05 18:15 in Iquitos CRC - PER
22 Sep 05 18:15 in Piura GHA - CHN

Group B:

16 Sep 05 14:15 in Lima URU - MEX
16 Sep 05 17:00 in Lima TUR - AUS
19 Sep 05 15:30 in Lima MEX - AUS
19 Sep 05 18:15 in Lima URU - TUR
22 Sep 05 15:30 in Chiclayo AUS - URU
22 Sep 05 15:30 in Piura MEX - TUR

Group C:

17 Sep 05 10:00 in Chiclayo CIV - ITA
17 Sep 05 12:45 in Chiclayo PRK - USA
20 Sep 05 15:30 in Chiclayo ITA - USA
20 Sep 05 18:15 in Chiclayo CIV - PRK
23 Sep 05 15:30 in Lima USA - CIV
23 Sep 05 15:30 in Trujillo ITA - PRK

Group D:

17 Sep 05 15:15 in Piura NED - QAT
17 Sep 05 18:00 in Piura BRA - GAM
20 Sep 05 15:30 in Piura QAT - GAM
20 Sep 05 18:15 in Piura NED - BRA
23 Sep 05 18:15 in Lima GAM - NED
23 Sep 05 18:15 in Trujillo QAT - BRA

Fitness test whittles down list of referees in Lima

2005-09-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

Nine of the 39 referees and assistant referees selected to be part of the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005, all of whom feature in the list of candidates for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, have been ordered to return home from the event before it has kicked off. This decision was taken following a fitness test to evaluate speed and endurance in Lima on 13 September. While the overall results were impressive, the test proved too stringent for three of the match officials taking part.

As previously announced, the FIFA Referees' Committee selected trios of match officials who come from the same country or share the same language. In one of the steps FIFA has taken to significantly improve refereeing standards, one of FIFA's main objectives, instructions issued to the referees prior to the competition made it clear that entire trios would be forced out of the competition if any of their members failed the fitness test.

The following trios will therefore not officiate at the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005:

- Referee: Carlos Simon (Brazil) + Assistant Referees: Aristeu Leonardo Tavares (Brazil)/Ednilson Coruna (Brazil)

- Referee: Carlos Amarilla Demarqui (Paraguay) + Assistant Referees: Nelson Cano (Paraguay)/Winston Reategui (Peru)

- Referee: Carlos Chandia Alarcon (Chile) + Assistant Referees: Rodrigo Gonzalez (Chile)/Alfonso Orlandini (Peru)

Replacements for these match officials, selected from the same confederation (i.e. CONMEBOL), will be confirmed in due course.

New Trophy and New Stadium

2005-09-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

There is a new trophy for the FIFA Youth Championship Peru 2005 and it was designed and created by the trophy makers and craftsmen Fattorini in the United Kingdom. Tom Fattorini insisted that youth and vitality were the main inspirations behind the design. "At U-17 level, the players possess so much talent and ability, it seems effortless. For us, it's about youth, so we tried to encompass the idea that joy of playing football was second nature to all the teams involved. We took the theme and created a concept which was to symbolize a dance, two opposing players linked in symmetry."

There is also one new stadium on display: the Max Augustin Stadium in Iquitos, which holds 23,000 people. The other four stadiums: The Estadio Nacional in Lima (47,000), the Estadio Mansiche in Trujillo (22,500), the Estadio Elias Aguirre in Chiclayo (22,000) and the Estadio Miguel Grau in Piura (21,000) all saw action in last year's highly successful Copa America tournament, which was won by Brazil.

American Team wants to Break every Record

2005-09-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

Having the amazing record of being the only squad to qualify for all eleven instalments of the FIFA U-17 World Championship, John Hackworth's American team will look forward to make an impressive showing in the upcoming tournament in Peru.

In addition to prestige, the US's proud record of reaching every finals since the inaugural event in China back in 1985 also brings a degree of pressure to each new generation of American juniors and coaches.

"The streak is alive, and thank goodness for that!" proclaimed relieved head coach John Hackworth after his youngsters raced to the top of CONCACAF qualifying group A in Costa Rica last April with a crucial 2-1 win over the hosts in hostile territory on the final matchday.

Over the course of their three qualifying matches (Cuba, El Salvador and Costa Rica), the team played a coherent brand of team football that saw them through some tricky tests. Omar Gonzalez stepped up to be the hero, scoring a crucial goal in only his first start in the decisive game with the Ticos. And expected to help fill the sizable shoes of Freddy Adu, Jonathan Spector and Eddie Gaven - US standouts from the previous U-17 finals in Finland two years ago - the pressure will be on the towering young Texan midfielder to pick up where he left off in qualifying and make an impression in the finals.

Much will also be expected of talented technicians Nikolas Besagno, Ryan Soroka and Preston Zimmerman - all of whom put in impressive performances in Costa Rica.

The Americans will also welcome back much-heralded forward Quavas Kirk, who missed out on the qualifying tournament after suffering a broken foot on the eve of the competition.

Brazil suffers a big Loss

2005-09-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

After scoring eight goals to help Brazil win the South American qualifying tournament in April, Kerlon earned rave reviews and was justifiably tipped to be one of the players to watch in Peru. "Unfortunately, he suffered a severe sprain in his left ankle and will not be fit to play in the tournament. After taking advice from the medical staff, we very reluctantly agreed to omit him. It is undoubtedly a major loss and he will be missed by the team, but as a squad we're well prepared and we have players ready to step in," says coach Nelson Rodrigues.

Kerlon was the focal point of the team in the Sudamericano in April and one of five Brazilians chosen as the tournament's best XI. The others were Ramon, a left-sided winger who loves to get forward, Leyrielton and Marcelo, roaming full backs in the Brazilian mould, and Anderson, a striker with what local experts are calling "unlimited potential". Marcelo and Anderson, however, will have to wait at least until the second game of the tournament for their debut after carrying over one game suspensions from qualifying.

Italy and Gambia are the first ones to arrive

2005-09-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

The countdown has began. The beginning of the FIFA World Youth Championship in Peru is very close and two of the participant teams are already in the south american country. Italy and Gambia arrived on monday at the international airport Jorge Chavez.

Gambia national team trained on the Videna Field yesterday in the morning, and then moved to continue their preparation at the National Stadium. The players showed a good mood at the time they were walking on the artificial grass of the stadium. The African team amazed the local journalist because of their very tall players. They come after an important training tour in USA, England and Costa Rica.

the coach Osam Dudu said that he has confidence in his team, which has enough technique to win the cup. They already played on artificial fields, so they wont have problems when facing Netherlands, Qatar and Brazil, in the group D.

Italian players were tired due to the long trip and didn't talk to the press. Anyway, they seemed very happy to be part of a FIFA World Cup. They took the bus and headed to "Melia" Hotel.

"We think we must get the first place in our group. Once there, anything could happen" goal keeper Simone Santarelli said. Midfielder Marco Mancuzo, mentioned they're prepared to get to final stages of the tournament. "Italy has always been a favorite team and we will prove it".

African Dream

2005-08-31T17:44:00.000-07:00

It's their seventh FIFA U-17 World Championship and Ghana have one very clear goal: to get back to winning ways after a few years in the wilderness. Twice triumphant in six finals contested and third placed on one occasion, the Black Starlets will definitely be among the favourites to lift the world crown in the category.

The Ghanaians earned their ticket to Peru by reaching the African U-17 Championship final last May. That match was lost in controversial circumstances to the host country Gambia and has left a feeling of unfinished business that brought the normally reserved coach David Duncan out of his shell: "We will prove in Peru that we are the best!" Ghana's initial opponents at the tournament are now known, namely the redoubtable Chinese, host country Peru and unknowns Costa Rica, in Group A.

Lima National Staduim brights with new Grass

2005-08-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

Former international peruvian striker Teofilo Cubillas spoke about the new artificial grass placed in Lima's National Staduim, to be used int the FIFA U-17 World Youth Championship. "Our main soccer field looks like one of the best fields in the world. I'm proud of that".

"It's still too early to judge the new field. It needs more matches to settle down the sand and rubber mixture." Said the peruvian forward who played at Fort Lauderdale Strikers. Like they have been doing in the USA - and recently in Europe - this new technology will help the players to improve their performance and reduce the injuries risk."

The "Nene" added: "Any player who had the chance to play on an artificial soccer field can tell the difference. It's very good for our country that, after this World Youth Championship, we'll be able to play on surfaces used only in the best stadiums of the world".

The New Mascot for Peru 2005

2005-08-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

Vicky is the name of the vicuna that was officially stated as mascot for the FIFA U-17 World Championship taking place in Peru in September. The vicuna is an animal native to the Andes mountain range whose distinguishing feature is the smooth fibres covering its hide. Despite being the smallest of all Camelid species, Vicky cuts an imposing figure, with her long neck. Even so, she will struggle to match the success of Chasqui, the hugely popular mascot of the 2004 Copa America.

"The World Championship will be represented by a character that has been a vital part of Peru's history. The vicuna's presence will add lustre to the tournament, to our history and to the country's image," stated Manuel Burga, President of the Peruvian Football Federation. "It's a likeable, original and typically Peruvian mascot and that's why we're sure it will be just as popular as its predecessor."

Peru: Beutiful Host Country

2005-08-21T03:21:00.000-07:00

Peru will participate at its first FIFA U-17 World Championship when the country hosts the competition in September/October 2005. Peru is centrally located on the western coast of South America. Its coastal towns and cities, which stretch for some 2,400km along the Pacific Ocean, make up about 12% of its territory. It shares its borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Bolivia and Brazil to the east and Chile to the south.

It's the multiple layers of great civilisations that make Peru so intriguing. You can wander around colonial cities that have preserved the legacy of the Spanish conquistadors, visit the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, explore the lost city of Machu Picchu and ponder the enigma of the Nazca Lines.

It also has some of the most spectacular and varied scenery in South America. The Peruvian Andes are arguably the most beautiful on the continent and the mountains are home to millions of highland Indians, who still speak the ancient tongue of Quechua and maintain a traditional way of life.

Peru Photo Gallery

The U-17 World Championship in Peru

2005-08-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

The world's eyes will be on Peru from 16 September to 2 October when the battle to take home the FIFA U-17 World Championship unfolds. Important Peruvian sports stars like Sofía Mulanovich, Teófilo Cubillas, Christian Ramos Garagay and Ramón Ferreyros, were involved in the draw of this tournament. Now the groups are ready to kick the first ball. One of the new features of this World Cup is that FIFA will use artificial grass for the first time in an official competition. Many soccer superstar like Ronaldinho, Del Piero and Maradona played a youth world competition like this and proved to be the future kings of the Soccer world. So we just have to sit and enjoy Peru 2005, and we will know who is going to be the next Pelé.