Spain U-15 advance to World Cup Round of 16
Spain U-15 reached the Round of 16 after a dramatic penalty shootout win against Wales. They will face Ecuador next.
The Spain U-15 national team has secured its place in the Round of 16 of the World Cup after a highly intense and dramatic victory over Wales. The match was decided in a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Danel Castro emerged as the hero.
The Betis youth product saved two penalties, showcasing exceptional intuition and composure. His performance was the result of diligent preparation alongside goalkeeper coach Juan Carlos Arévalo and fellow goalkeeper Leo Rico.
The game almost ended in regulation time for Spain, had it not been for the decisive intervention of captain Alberto Ruiz. In the final minute, he collected a rebound at the edge of the area and calmly found the net with a left-footed strike, forcing the match into the shootout.
The encounter was marked by high tension and on-field disputes, as the Welsh side attempted to disrupt the flow of the game. Following the final whistle, tensions escalated when members of the Welsh delegation attempted to enter the pitch, leading to a scuffle, but the Spanish team remained focused on their qualification.
David Gordo's side is now looking forward to their next challenge against Ecuador. The Round of 16 match is scheduled for this Wednesday at 17:45 CET.