Canada dominated Zambia with a 6-0 victory in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup in Sale, Morocco. The win sets up a quarterfinal clash against Brazil. The victor of the Canada-Brazil match will face either North Korea or Japan in the semifinals. In a separate Round of 16 match, Brazil defeated China 3-0.
In the game, Daniela Feria-Estrada netted two goals, while Melisa Kekic, Mya Angus, Chloe Taylor, and Amy Medley each scored one for Canada. The team showcased impressive skills, although Kekic missed a penalty in the second half. Canada has been dominant in the tournament, outscoring opponents 18-2 in their four consecutive wins.
Canada’s past U-17 championship performances include a fourth-place finish in 2018 and quarterfinal appearances in 2008, 2012, and 2014. The team secured a spot in the knockout stage by winning Group D matches against Nigeria, Samoa, and France. Zambia, on the other hand, advanced as one of the top third-place finishers in their group.
Other Round of 16 results saw France defeating Spain in a penalty shootout, Mexico beating Paraguay 1-0, and Japan blanking Colombia 4-0.
Zambia, despite a strong showing against New Zealand, fell short against Canada. The Zambian team, entirely composed of domestic players, displayed energetic play but lacked the finishing touch.
Canada’s Goals and Highlights
Canada opened the scoring through a counterattack with a goal by Kekic in the 13th minute. Feria-Estrada and Angus extended the lead with goals in the 30th and 39th minutes, respectively. Despite a missed penalty by Kekic, Canada maintained control of the game.
In the second half, Taylor and Medley added to the tally, with Feria-Estrada sealing the win with a beautiful free-kick goal in the 92nd minute. The Canadian team showcased a strong attacking presence, outshooting Zambia 12-10.
Coach Jen Herst made strategic lineup changes, with Feria-Estrada making a notable impact. Zambia’s starting lineup included 15-year-old defender Faith Kaunda, while Canada introduced 15-year-old Melyna Alexis in the 71st minute.
Both teams had contrasting journeys in the tournament, with Zambia participating in its third U-17 championship and Canada securing a spot after missing out on the 2024 edition. Canada’s qualification for the 2025 tournament was a result of impressive performances in CONCACAF qualifying matches earlier in the year.