As anticipation builds for the final of the South American U-17 Championship, Brazil and Colombia are set to clash on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Estadio Olímpico Jaime Morón León in Cartagena, Colombia. The match is scheduled to kick off at 21:00 Brasília time, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for glory.
Brazil, a football powerhouse, is aiming for its 14th title in this prestigious tournament. The Seleção Brasileira has a storied history in the competition, having previously won the championship multiple times, including twice in the 21st century. Their last triumph came in 2019, and they are determined to add another trophy to their cabinet this year.
On the other hand, Colombia is on the hunt for its first title in the U-17 Championship, having previously won the tournament only once in 1993 when they hosted it. The home team is eager to capitalize on the support of their fans and make history by lifting the trophy on home soil.
Both teams come into the final with impressive performances in the tournament so far. Brazil topped Group B with three wins and one draw, scoring eight goals and conceding just three. In the semifinals, they secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Chile, showcasing their defensive prowess and tactical discipline. The standout player for Brazil has been Ruan Pablo, who leads the team with three goals in the tournament. His contributions have been crucial in guiding Brazil to the final.
Colombia also had a strong showing in the group stage, finishing first in Group A with three wins and one loss. Their only setback came against Paraguay. In the semifinals, they delivered a stunning performance by defeating Venezuela 5-1, with Santiago Londoño shining as the star of the match. Londoño has been in phenomenal form, netting five goals throughout the tournament and proving to be a significant threat to opposing defenses.
The final marks a significant moment for both countries, as they have faced each other in the tournament before. Brazil holds a historical advantage, having won six of their last seven encounters against Colombia in the U-17 Championship. The only victory for Colombia in this period was in 2015, which adds an extra layer of pressure on them as they seek to break this trend.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the stakes couldn't be higher. Brazil is not only looking to maintain its dominance in South American youth football but also to secure its place in history as one of the most successful teams in the tournament's history. Meanwhile, Colombia aims to rewrite its narrative and finally claim the title that has eluded them for decades.
Fans can catch the action live on SporTV 3, ensuring that supporters from both nations will be glued to their screens as they cheer for their teams. The atmosphere in Cartagena is expected to be electric, with passionate fans from both sides filling the stands to witness this historic clash.
The probable lineups for the match have also been announced. Brazil is expected to field a strong team led by goalkeeper Arthur Jampa, with a defense comprising Angelo, Luis Eduardo, Kauã Prates, and Denner. The midfield will feature Gustavo Gomes, Zé Lucas, and Felipe de Morais, while the attack will be spearheaded by Kayke, Dell, and Ruan Pablo.
Colombia, under the guidance of coach Freddy Hurtado, will likely start with Mendoza in goal, supported by a backline of Macías, García, Herazo, and Rivas. The midfield will see Orozco, Quiñones, and Agamez working to control the game, while Flórez, Sevillano, and the in-form Londoño will lead the attack.
This final is not just a match; it's a culmination of hard work, dedication, and dreams for both teams. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the players will be focused on their goal: to emerge victorious and etch their names in the annals of U-17 football history.
With the final whistle yet to blow, all eyes will be on Cartagena as Brazil and Colombia battle it out for supremacy in the South American U-17 Championship. The world will be watching, and the excitement is palpable as fans await the crowning of a new champion.
