9-8! 5-4! U17 Women's World Cup Semifinalists Decided: Italy and France Shocked, North Korea Faces Brazil

On November 3rd Beijing time, the U17 Women's World Cup quarterfinals proceeded, creating an electrifying evening featuring two penalty shootouts. The Netherlands edged out France 9-8 on penalties, and Mexico overcame Italy 5-4. Thus, the tournament’s semifinalists are confirmed as Brazil, North Korea, the Netherlands, and Mexico, with the Americas taking home two semifinal berths!

France versus the Netherlands. France finished second in their group, the Netherlands third. Both teams survived brutal penalty shootouts in the round of 16 to eliminate Spain and the USA, respectively, narrowly escaping elimination. When they met, France started aggressively, scoring early to take control. After a long goalless period, France scored a second goal in the 91st minute of stoppage time, seemingly sealing the match. However, the Netherlands staged a remarkable comeback, scoring twice in five minutes at the 93rd and 98th minutes to equalize and push the game to penalties. The shootout was intense: France missed their first penalty, the Netherlands missed their fourth, leveling again. After five rounds, every subsequent kick became sudden death. France missed their ninth penalty, while the Netherlands converted theirs calmly, winning 9-8 and pulling off a stunning upset to reach the semifinals—truly extraordinary!

Mexico faced Italy. Mexico finished second in their group and faced Italy, who had won all four of their group matches. During regular time, Italy held the advantage and earned two penalty chances, but surprisingly missed both, resulting in a 0-0 draw and a penalty shootout. In the shootout, Mexico showed superior composure, scoring all five penalties, while Italy missed their third attempt. Consequently, Mexico won 5-4 on penalties, pulling off a major upset to reach the semifinals. Italy’s exit highlights a key lesson: wasting chances will be punished!

With the semifinalists decided, three of the four matches went to penalty shootouts, indicating how closely matched the women’s teams are worldwide—no one can win easily. The semifinals will see North Korea take on Brazil for a spot in the final, while Mexico faces the Netherlands to battle for the other final berth. We eagerly await the final lineup—stay tuned!

Written by / Sports Fiction