U-20 Women’s World Cup: Benin fight back to draw Mexico as Tanzania fall to Brazil

Benin produced a spirited comeback to earn a 2-2 draw against Mexico in their opening match at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, while Tanzania were beaten 4-1 by Brazil in Bielsko-Biala.

Making their first appearance in the competition, Benin recovered from two goals down to claim a memorable point, with 15-year-old Romaine Gandonou scoring twice in the second half.

Mexico took the lead in the 21st minute through Soto before Salvidar doubled their advantage shortly after the break.

Benin, however, refused to surrender and were handed a route back into the match when Gandonou converted a penalty.

The teenager then completed the comeback three minutes from time, racing beyond the Mexican defence before finishing to make it 2-2.

The late equaliser sparked emotional celebrations from the Benin players, who embraced at the final whistle after securing a point from a difficult position.

Tanzania also showed resilience in their opening game against Brazil, recovering from an early setback to draw level before eventually being overpowered in the second half.

Brazil went ahead through Thaynara, who reacted to a poor clearance from a free-kick before curling a right-footed effort into the net.

Tanzania responded when Sofia Couto committed a foul inside the penalty area, allowing Winfrida Gerald to score from the spot and level the contest.

Brazil regained control after the interval, with Evelin restoring their lead before adding another with a powerful finish from the left.

Vitorinha then completed the scoring late on with a superb free-kick into the top corner.

Despite the contrasting results, both Benin and Tanzania showed determination in their opening matches, with Benin rewarded for their comeback and Tanzania making Brazil work hard before the South Americans pulled away.