Argentina emerged victorious, securing a remarkable 3-0 scoreline and ousting arch-rivals Brazil in the stunning showdown at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Indonesia 2023™ quarter-finals.
Claudio Echeverri, the standout player of the match, stole the spotlight with an outstanding hat-trick (28th, 58th, 71st minutes), securing Argentina’s berth in the semi-finals.
The game initially simmered in the first 15 minutes until Rayan’s narrowly missed shot signaled a shift in momentum. Argentina’s Santiago Lopez initiated a promising move, but a swift Brazilian defense thwarted Agustin Ruberto’s goal-scoring opportunity.
Echeverri soon changed the narrative, embarking on a mesmerizing solo run, culminating in a shot that, aided by a fortuitous deflection off Vitor Reis, soared over Phillipe Gabriel to find the net.
The second goal showcased Echeverri’s skill as he deftly maneuvered past two Brazilian defenders, delivering a precise strike from a tight angle.
The third goal, completing his hat-trick, unfolded with Echeverri capitalizing on an impeccable Ruberto assist, effortlessly rounding Gabriel before calmly slotting the ball into the empty net.
With this triumph, Echeverri not only secured Argentina’s spot in the semi-finals but also ascended to the summit of the adidas Golden Boot race.
The next challenge awaits as Argentina prepares to face Germany in the semi-final clash at Surakarta’s Manahan Stadium on Tuesday.