Austria Stun England in U-17 World Cup: Young Lions Crash Out After Rodriguez's Red Card
England's Under-17 World Cup dream comes to a crushing end as Austria dominate a ten-player Young Lions side, highlighted by the pivotal red card received by Alejandro Gomes Rodriguez. The loss saw Austria sail through to the quarter-finals, showcasing their strongest performance in the age-restricted tournament.
England have been eliminated from the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in spectacular fashion, losing 4-0 against Austria in the round of 16. Alejandro Gomes Rodriguez's red card shortly after the Young Lions fell behind early in the second half proved to be a crucial moment, with Austria eventually going on to run up the score-line in the latter stages of the knockout tie.At the Aspire Zone in Qatar, where the world's best teenage players have been performing for the past couple of weeks, England proved no match for an Austria side enjoying what is already their country's best ever performance at this age-restricted tournament.Austria took the lead two minutes into the second half when Hasan Deshiksu managed to dribble his way into the penalty area and squeezed a shot between Jack Porter and the near post, something the Arsenal goalkeeper will no doubt be disappointed with. Then came Rodriguez's red card, which handed Austria an advantage they made sure to fully take.Johannes Moser doubled the lead from the penalty spot after 70 minutes, before adding an Austrian third less than 10 minutes later. As England collapsed, the fourth goal came from defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe in the closing stages, tapping in on the line after Porter had saved an initial attempt.Based at Red Bull Salzburg feeder club FC Liefering, Johannes Moser scored twice to help fire Austria in the quarter-finals, where they will face Japan. The 17-year-old midfielder was playing regularly at frst-team level in Austria's second tier prior to this tournament and his 2025 is only getting better.Lyon's Alejandro Gomes Rodriguez was guilty of missing a hatful of chances in England's shock opening group stage defeat to Venezuela, ironically the country he switched allegiance from to play for the Young Lions, and was again at the centre of things for the wrong reasons here.His dismissal, the result of a late challenge on Austrian goalkeeper Daniel Posch, wasn't the only reason England are out of the tournament. But it certainly didn't help, coming at a poor time right after falling behind with almost half the game still left to play. From that moment, England were up against it and the momentum was firmly with Austria for the rest of the tie.
Austria's Domination and England's Downfall
In a stunning turn of events at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, England faced a resounding 4-0 defeat against Austria in the round of 16. The match took a decisive turn in the second half, as Hasan Deshiksu's early goal provided the breakthrough for Austria. The game-changing moment came with Alejandro Gomes Rodriguez's red card, which left the Young Lions with a mountain to climb.
Johannes Moser Shines for Austria
Austria's Johannes Moser emerged as a standout performer, scoring two crucial goals from a penalty and open play to secure Austria's victory. The 17-year-old midfielder's impressive form has been a key factor in Austria's success, with his recent contributions highlighting his growing impact on the international stage.
Rodriguez's Red Card and England's Setback
Lyon's Alejandro Gomes Rodriguez, who had previously struggled in England's early matches, faced a significant setback with his red card for a late challenge on the Austrian goalkeeper. This turning point, coupled with England's struggles to contain Austria's attacking prowess, ultimately sealed the fate of the Young Lions in the tournament.
Looking Ahead: Austria vs. Japan in Quarter-Finals
Following their remarkable victory over England, Austria's U-17 team is set to face Japan in the quarter-finals. With their confidence soaring and key players like Johannes Moser in fine form, Austria appears poised to continue their impressive run in the tournament and potentially make history with a deep progression.
