FIFA U-17 World Cup: Paraguay Spell Solomon In Experimental Display

Paraguay led just three minutes into their match against Solomon Islands on Thursday, setting the tone for a 7-0 triumph at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Brazil 2019™. 

La Albirroja were unselfish offensively to the tune of six different goal scorers: Junior Noguera, Matias Segovia, Diego Torres, Fernando Presentado, Fabio Barrios and Diego Duarte all tallied, with Torres nabbing a brace.

The performance from Paraguay made Monday's physical, goalless affair against Concacaf champions Mexico feel miles away. Noguera's early chip over Solomon Islands goalkeeper Davidson Malam was a harbinger of their scoring spree, and La Albirroja wore out their competition with five goals in the final 25 minutes of the game. Now boasting four points from two matches and a formidable goal differential, Paraguay have bolstered their knockout phase prospects.

The Oceania side rarely lacked for effort or bravery, but came up against a proven defence and attackers eager to open Paraguay's account at Brazil 2019. Malam faced an insurmountable 28 shots, 13 of which hit the target. He twice used his feet to make impressive stops in one-on-one situations, once in each half. Solomon Islands remain in search of their first goal at a U-17 world finals.

By Olamide Oyetunji