European sides' hopes ended
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Article summary
The Netherlands and Spain both suffered defeats in their quarter-final ties at the FIFA World Youth Championship.
Article body
Four defeats
With Germany and Italy eliminated after extra time and penalties respectively yesterday, European hopes rested on the shoulders of the Dutch hosts and Spain in the two remaining quarter-finals. But it was to prove a disappointing day as neither side could overcome fluent opponents.
Early strike
The opening match got off to the worst of starts for the Dutch, who fell behind in the first minute, with John Owoeri tapping in. However, the local favourites fought back in front of a partisan crowd at Kerkrade's Parkstad Limburg stadium, and Ron Vlaar made it 1-1 within 60 seconds of half-time, glancing home Quincy Owusu Abeyie's cross.
Penalty marathon
Both teams had chances to win but the game drifted into extra time and then penalties. Collins John converted the first and the sides matched each other until the Fulham FC striker was called on to take the Netherlands' 12th penalty. His chipped effort was brilliantly saved allowing the match-winner against Ukraine, Taye Taiwo, to repeat the feat and seal a 10-9 shoot-out success.
Zapater leveller
The victors earned an all-African semi-final against Italy's conquerors Morocco on Wednesday, while the other last-four tie will see Argentina take on great rivals Brazil after their 3-1 win against Spain. Iñaki Sáez's charges fell behind to a Pablo Zabaleta strike midway through the first half but soon equalised through Zapater.
Quick-fire goals
Argentina responded well and two second-half goals in as many minutes secured their progress. Gustavo Oberman made it 2-1 on 71 minutes before Lionel Messi, who plays his club football for FC Barcelona, consigned Spain to their fate.
