Booters blank Brit side in WC for street kids

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines achieved a milestone in the Street Child World Cup as its girls’ team reached the semifinals after a 6-0 rout of England Friday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Agot scored a hat-trick and got needed support from Angelica, Maylene, and Juvie Lynn to lead Phl to the Last Four against Mozambique, which turned back South Africa, 7-3.

The other semis duel will pit host Brazil against El Salvador. Brazil prevailed over Nicaragua, 3-1 while El Salvador defeated Zimbabwe in extra time, 5-4.

The Phl’s boys team couldn’t match the girls’ advance as it bowed to favored Pakistan in penalties in the quarterfinals, 3-2.

The Pinoys actually took an early 1-0 lead behind Avin’s connection off a defensive error by the Pakistanis but they gave up the tying goal just before regulation ended.

The standoff wasn’t broken in extra time so the game went into a penalty shootout. Avin and Ronald took care of their penalties but Mackie missed his as the Phl settled for two goals. Pakistan made good on their three turns to steal the win.

The Pakistanis set up a semis showdown with Burundi, 3-0 winner over Liberia. The US, 6-2 victor over Brazil, and Tanzania, 3-1 winner on penalties over Indonesia, will figure in the other Final Four setto.

“Mixed results but a lot to be proud of from both teams,” said Roy Moore, team leader and head coach of the delegation organized by Fairplay for All Foundation and composed of players from Payatas FC, Kids International Ministries, Gawad Kalinga, FC Leveriza, SOS Children’s Village Davao, and Mango Tree House.

The Street Child World Cup in association with Save the Children is a global movement for street children to receive the protection and opportunities that all children are entitled to. Held ahead of the Fifa World Cup, they unite street children from across five continents to play football and unite in a unique international conference.