The facilities are also excellent," Hay said. But I am happy with the work ethics of my boys against a world class team," Hay said. "The hospitality we have experienced here is top notch. And the MFA is an ideal ground — not too big — something which rubber speed humps suppliers we don’t have in New Zealand. New Zealand will start campaign against Turkey at DY Patil Stadium on October 6 in a Group B encounter.Despite Vinicius not playing, Brazil chose to shield main players like Alan de Souza and Lincoln, as they had played a lot of games in their domestic season.However, both teams would have liked to have more spectators so as to create a World Cup game atmosphere. Many Mumbaikars turned out in the trademark yellow jerseys, something which Brazilian head coach Carlos Amadeu admired after the game.

The game, held at MFA Andheri Sports Complex, came ahead of the maiden Fifa World Cup in India beginning on October 6. Besides a cracking game they were also treated to spot kicks, as part of preparations for the U17 World Cup, which Brazil won 5-4.. Their opponents, New Zealand, showed grit and determination to deny the three- time U17 Fifa World Cup champions any goals, until striker Brenner da Silva struck both goals in the second half during the 2-1 win in their first practice game. Despite free entry, the spectator turnout was disappointing. "There were fans wearing yellow jerseys, which definitely boosted us. New Zealand head coach Daniel Hay also praised the venue. "I was not surprised as New Zealand is a strong team physically," he said.Marcos Anotonio was the forced change after Wesley’s injury. "They (Brazil) had more possession, we were chasing for most of the match.New Zealand captain Max Mata scored from the spot at the fag end as the Kiwis tested Brazil’s defense, but the Samba Boys held on to their lead.

The known absence of Real Madrid pick Vinicius Junior, who is set to join the squad on Saturday may have also acted as a deterrent. Paulinho, has an ankle injury and has been rested for the game. In Goa too, we received a similar response, when we were there last year (2016 BRICS U-17 Football Cup)," Amadeu said. Prior to that, the All Blacks will play another practice game against England at Mumbai Football Arena on October 1. It was a really good experience," Amadeu said. Alan was a live wire in the midfield, heading the role of playmaker.Despite the low temperatures the Kiwis face back home, they gave glimpses of what to expect from them during their matches at DY Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai, despite the humid conditions. Alan and Lincoln were unleashed in the second half, and their presence made the difference as the Kiwi defence, which looked compact in the first half, started cracking. "I wanted to rest them," Amadeu explained. The fact that the game took place on a weekday at 5 pm, could have been a reason for the poor turnout, according to fans. The stadium wasn’t even half full, but some hard core fans did turn up.It might have just been their junior national team, but Brazil, playing for the first time in Mumbai, displayed their usual flair and brilliance in front of the partisan crowd at the Mumbai Football Arena (MFA) on Thursday evening. His partnership with Vinicius upfront will be something to watch out for.Brazil, who will continue to train at MFA, had some injury concerns, as their defender Wesley limped off with a leg issue and a couple of their players suffered from niggles. "The facilities and the pitch were very good for us.Both coaches praised the field of play and facilities available at the MFA. Understandably, Brazil, who have produced world-class players over the years and have been five-time Fifa World Cup champions at the senior level, enjoyed great support.Brazil is in Group D and start the U17 World Cup proceedings against European champions Spain in Kochi on October 7. Amadeu said he expected a physical game. We created a couple of good chances but could not convert them

Hide Comments | Add Comment