U-17 World Cup Begins

The U-17 World Cup kicked off on Saturday, with the first round of group games ending this afternoon.

It has been a mixed start for the Latin American teams involved thus far.

Costa Rica started their campaign with a 1-1 draw with Togo, after Josue Martinez equalised nine minutes from time.

Peru shocked the host nation Korea Republic by defeating them 1-0 thanks to a first half strike from Carlos Bazalar.

Brazil lived up to their billing as one of the pre-tournament favourites as they thrashed New Zealand 7-0. Seven different players were on the scoresheet for Brazil; first half goals from Fabinho, Lazaro and Giuliano added to in the second half by Fabio, Alex, Lulinha and Junior.

Honduras put up a valiant effort against European Champions Spain, but it wasn't quite enough as they went down 4-2, despite strikes from Christian Martinez and Roger Rojas.

Argentina limped to a disappointing goalless draw with Syria in their opening game; a fine display by the Syrian goalkeeper enough to keep the Argentines at bay.

Haiti were defeated 3-1 by Japan in their first ever U-17 World Cup game. Joseph Guemsly Junior equalised to make it 1-1 with twenty minutes to go, but the Japanese proved too strong with two goals in the last ten minutes enough to secure them victory.

Colombia came back from 3-1 down to draw 3-3 with Germany this morning. A Miguel Julio strike had given Colombia the lead early on, before Germany raced into a 3-1 lead. Two second half goals from Cristian Nazarith - the second coming two minutes from time - were sufficent to give the Colombians a well earned point.

Trindad and Tobago are the last Latin American team to play their first round match as they take on Ghana early this afternoon. The game is being shown on British Eurosport from 12:30pm, or is availiable on FIFA.com TV if you cannot get Eurosport.