Switzerland win FIFA Under-17 World Cup

November 16, 2009

Debutants Switzerland were crowned Under-17 World Cup champions here on Sunday when they defeated hosts and defending champions Nigeria 1-0 inside a packed Abuja National Stadium.

Haris Seferovic gave Switzerland the title courtesy of a 63rd minute header.

The Swiss were impressive leading to this championship game, and did well to contain the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria, before they dealt the killer blow through Seferovic to the disappointment of the 60,000-strong crowd.

Nigeria were overwhelming favourites to win their fourth Under-17 World Cup, particularly on the back of the full international team’s dramatic qualification for next year’s World Cup in South Africa 24 hours earlier.

Spain took third place when they defeated Colombia 1-0.

Isco scored the winner in the 75th minute after Spain struggled to translate their dominance into goals.

Nigerian striker Sani Emmanuel was picked as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He scored five goals, all as a substitute.

LAGOS (AFP)

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