Mexico's U-17 Women's National Team secured third place at the 2025 Morocco U-17 Women's World Cup by defeating Brazil 3-1 in penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Goalkeeper Valentina Murrieta emerged as the hero by stopping two crucial penalties. This victory marks a historic achievement for Mexican women's youth soccer.
The third-place match between Mexico and Brazil at the 2025 Morocco U-17 Women's World Cup was an intense duel decided by penalties. Coached by Miguel Gamero, the Mexican team displayed defensive solidity and a winning mentality. Brazil opened the scoring in the 79th minute with a goal from Kaylane Cristina Vieira, who capitalized on a rebound in the Mexican box. Mexico equalized in stoppage time at 90+6 through a Brazilian own goal forced by Evelin Evelin, sending the game to penalties.
In the shootout, Berenice Ibarra, Mia Villalpando, and Fernanda Monroy scored for Mexico, securing the 3-1 win. Valentina Murrieta shone by stopping two shots, one with a spectacular double reaction. Coach Gamero praised his goalkeeper: "We knew the goalkeeper we have," highlighting the lesson shared with her before the match.
Mexico reached this game after beating Cameroon 1-0 in the group stage, Paraguay 1-0 in the round of 16 with Ibarra's goal in the 17th, and Italy on penalties after a 0-0 draw in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, they lost 1-0 to the Netherlands. Brazil started with a 3-0 win over Morocco, drew 1-1 with Costa Rica, lost 3-4 to Italy, beat China 3-0, eliminated Canada on penalties after 0-0, and fell 2-0 to North Korea in the semis.
This bronze medal reaffirms the growth of Mexican women's soccer in youth categories, leaving a mark on the international stage.