Fiji wrapped up their historic first FIFA U-17 World Cup™ campaign with a courageous performance, falling 7-0 to a dominant Argentina side.
The Young Bula Boys came out with a renewed energy and belief, working hard in defence to upset the rhythym of the Argentinians attack. The South Americans started fast, pushing through Fiji’s defensive lines and earning a penalty in the 10th minute.
Goalkeeper Melvin Prakash produced a brilliant save to deny Argentina’s captain Uriel Ojeda, drawing huge cheers from his teammates and showing early composure against the South American heavyweights.
Fiji worked hard to stay compact, but Argentina’s relentless attack soon broke through. Ojeda opened the scoring after Prakash’s initial stop, before Mateo Martínez struck twice first finishing from a low cross, then volleying home from a free kick. Argentina led 3-0 at halftime after 16 attempts on goal to Fiji’s one.
The South Americans maintained control after the break, adding to their tally with another from Ojeda scoring from deflected cross. Ojeda would complete his hat-trick in the closing ten minutes, followed by Santiago Silveira who found the net in quick succession, both benefiting from strong build-up play on the right flank.
Fiji continued to fight until the end, showing resilience in defence and flashes of promise on the counters. Prakash was outstanding throughout, making several impressive saves against a barrage of strikes from Argentina.
Though the result went against them, Fiji’s campaign marked a proud milestone for Fiji Football with their first-ever appearance at a FIFA U-17 World Cup, played with heart and determination.
Fiji: 0
Argentina: 7 ( Uriel OJEDA 17′, 57′, 88′, Mateo MARTINEZ 30′, 43′, Santiago SILVEIRA 89′, Own Goal 90+1′)
HT: 0-3
