In a stunning display of skill and resilience, the Venezuelan national under-17 football team pulled off a remarkable 3-0 victory over England in their opening match of the 2025 U17 World Cup in Qatar.
From the outset, England put the Venezuelan defense under intense pressure, seeking an early goal to settle their nerves. However, the Venezuelan goalkeeper Alan Vázquez was in inspired form, making a series of crucial saves to deny the English attackers, particularly the dangerous Alejandro Gomes.
Just as it seemed England’s breakthrough goal was imminent, Venezuelan defender Román Davis stunned the opposition by firing home a powerful shot that found the back of the net, giving Venezuela a surprise 1-0 lead in the 40th minute.
Undeterred, the English – former world champions in this age category in 2017 – pushed forward in search of an equalizer, leaving gaps at the back. Venezuela capitalized on the counter-attack, with Dioner Fuentes unleashing a thunderous strike from outside the area to double their advantage just before halftime.
With a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break, Venezuela focused on defending their lead, relying on the heroics of Vázquez to thwart any English comeback attempts. The frustrated English side grew increasingly desperate, leaving themselves vulnerable to Venezuelan counterattacks.
In stoppage time, Venezuela put the icing on the cake, as Eider Barrios pounced on a goalkeeper error to score the third and final goal, sealing a famous 3-0 victory for the ‘Mini Vinotinto’ over their highly-fancied opponents.
This stunning result has sent shockwaves through the tournament, with Venezuela emerging as a surprise package in Group E and firmly establishing themselves as a team to watch in the U17 World Cup.
