Mexico is in the semifinals of the U-17 World Cup for the third consecutive time after beating Ecuador 2-0 on Monday in Chile.
In the 28th minute, a giveaway at the back allowed Ecuador’s Jhon Pereira to have a clear look at goal, but LA Galaxy goalkeeping prospect Abraham Romero made the save to keep things level at zero.
Mexico got on the board in the 41st minute when a 50-50 ball in the box was headed toward Claudio Zamudio, who drove the ball into the ground and past the goalkeeper for his second goal of the tournament.
The Baby Tri had the chance to extend that lead in the 53rd minute when Ecuador’s Juan Carlos Pena brought down Jose Gurrola in the box and referee Ruddy Buquet whistled the obvious penalty. Bryan Salzar stepped up and converted with his preferred left foot in the 55th minute to give El Tri the 2-0 lead.
The North Americans advance to face Nigeria on Thursday. Nigeria beat Mexico in the final of the 2013 U-17 World Cup. In addition to being the reigning champion, Nigeria is also the most successful team at the age level, winning four total U-17 World Cups. Mexico lifted the trophy in 2011.
