Brazil beat Canada 6–2 and Japan defeated Zambia 5–0 in their opening U17 Women's World Cup matches in Morocco on October 18. FIFA's round-up also records Norway's 3–0 victory over Ghana and France's 2–0 win against Venezuela.
Greise Kelly played a central role for Brazil, scoring twice and helping create goals after an early Canadian lead.
Brazil recover, Japan start quickly
Reed Tingley put Canada ahead after four minutes. Helena headed Brazil level in first-half added time from Kelly's delivery. Nicolly Manuel scored after the break before Chloe Scicchitano equalised with a volley.
Marcela Bontorim restored Brazil's lead, Kelly struck in the 63rd and 72nd minutes, and Pepe completed the scoring in stoppage time.
Japan went two goals ahead inside thirteen minutes through Nanami Kurita and a Grace Phiri own goal. Wara Shimizu added the third, Kurita scored again late on and Asuka Tanaka made it five in added time.
Clean sheets for Norway and France
Isabella Lepore's long-range opener and two Maia Melgard goals gave Norway their first victory at this tournament. Erla Braathen denied Cynthia Obinsrewuo when Ghana threatened a response.
France led through Maelys Ane after seventeen minutes. Venezuela's Karla Alfonzo missed a second-half penalty before Lea Motyka converted one for France in the 56th minute.
The results establish opening wins for Brazil and Norway in Group C and Japan and France in Group D. Qualification remains dependent on the group fixtures still to come.