Whether you want to call it soccer or football, the sport has the attention of billions of people around the world. And now that the U17 (under 17 years old) World Cup 2023 is coming to an end, two champions battled it out to make it to the finals for the title of FIFA U17 World Champions, Argentina and Germany. 

Argentina has won 3 FIFA World Cups, and Germany has won 4. Now these younglings have to live up to this expectation by winning the U17 World Cup.

Paris Brunner(GER) made his breakthrough with an extraordinary 2 goals. On Argentina’s side, Agustin Ruberto was the featured player, scoring 3 goals in this match. 

The first goal of the game was scored when Brunner found the net in the first 9 minutes. Ruberto scored the second goal, putting Argentina in the lead 2-1. 

Brunner scored his second tying goal, and hope was back for Germany. 

The teams continued to go head to head for a while until Max Moerstedt scored the next goal. At this point, Germany lead Argentina 3-2. 

Just when everybody thought all hope was lost, Ruberto scored a third goal, typing the game. A penalty shootout would begin. Those at the stadium and at home were at the edge of their seats, adrenaline pumping, as the shootout began.

“It’s exciting when it goes into penalties because everyone’s [happy but worried],” said Mrs. Mason, a soccer lover.

As the penalties began, kick after kick, many began to realize who was going to win this game. A great number of fans were ecstatic when Germany defeated Argentina at a crushing 4-2 in the shootout, but Argentina was disappointed to fail to play the finals against France.

“Let’s just say, it was a hard time [when Argentina lost]. It’s just that our team didn’t win. It’s not that I’m not happy for [Germany], I am. It’s just hard that our team didn’t win,” said Taylor S.

In the end, both teams played hard to the last minute. It was a close game, but the penalties made it clear who deserved to advance. We are all happy for Germany and proud of Argentina for playing to the best of their abilities and having good sportsmanship even after they lost.

“[I would like to tell Argentina [to] stay optimistic [and next time] don’t let the other team score,” said Mrs. Mason.

Argentina will battle Mali for third place, while Germany will face France for the winning title. We will all see what happens next. In the meantime, try to contain your excitement. The next games are coming and a winner will soon be declared!