U-17 World Cup: Spain beat France to enter quarters

A late penalty by Abel Ruiz saw Spain edge past France 2-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Tuesday.

Lenny Pinto put France in the lead in the 34th minute but soon Juan Miranda of Spain scored an equaliser in the 44th minute.

In the 90th minute, Ruiz converted a penalty to seal the deal for European champions Spain.

Spain will now take on Iran, who defeated Mexico 2-1 in the other pre-quarterfinal match.

The first 30 minutes between both Spain and France was a cagey affair. But things changed in the 34th minute when France took the lead through Pinto's brilliant finish from the left side of the Spain box.

But, just before half-time, Spain's Miranda scored an equaliser. Miranda ran into the France box and collected Ferran Torres' cross to slam into the net.

After the half time, Spain made several box penetrations and troubled goalkeeper Yahia Fofana many times before missing the target with an excellent free-kick opportunity.

But in the 90th minute, Spain were awarded a penalty kick and skipper and FC Barcelona sensation Ruiz stepped up and converted the penalty to send Spain into the last eight of the competition.

--IANS

gau/pur/bg