The Women’s U20 World Cup began in Poland on Saturday with contrasting results for the two African teams involved, as debutants Benin drew with Mexico while Tanzania were beaten by Brazil.
Benin opened their first appearance at the tournament with a 2-2 draw against Mexico. The result gives the U20 Guepardes one point in Group A and provides a positive start to their first experience of the global competition.
Tanzania, making their own debut in the tournament, faced a difficult opening assignment against Brazil in Group B. Brazil won 4-1 to begin their campaign with three points, leaving Tanzania without a reward from their first match.
The opening day also saw the host nation make a winning start. Poland defeated Argentina 3-0, while Canada and England played out a 1-1 draw in the other Group B fixture.
The tournament brings together 24 national teams and will continue in Poland until 27 September.
Opening-day results
Brazil recorded the biggest win of the day by overcoming Tanzania 4-1. The result immediately gave the South Americans momentum in Group B, while Tanzania will now look to respond in their next match after conceding four goals.
Poland produced a convincing result in front of their home support, beating Argentina 3-0. Their victory means the hosts began the competition with a clean-sheet win and an early advantage in Group A.
The meeting between Canada and England ended level at 1-1. Both teams therefore collected a point from their first Group B fixture, with neither able to claim an early lead in the section.
Benin’s draw with Mexico completed the day’s schedule. The result was particularly significant for the African side, who have entered the Women’s U20 World Cup for the first time. Their two goals secured a share of the points and ensured that the U20 Guepardes began their world campaign unbeaten.
The first round of matches has therefore produced mixed fortunes for Africa. Benin have taken a point from Mexico, while Tanzania were defeated by Brazil. Both sides are competing in the tournament for the first time.
Saturday’s results:
- Brazil 4-1 Tanzania - Poland 3-0 Argentina - Canada 1-1 England - Mexico 2-2 Benin