Colombia overcome early Costa Rica setback to win U20 World Cup opener

Colombia began their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Costa Rica on Monday, 7 September, recovering from an early deficit to secure a deserved win.

Costa Rica made the stronger start and stunned their opponents by taking the lead after only six minutes. Sheik Scott finished an attack created by S. Pitty, giving the Central American side an early advantage and briefly putting Colombia under pressure.

The opening half was played at a high tempo, with both teams producing an intense and eventful contest. Costa Rica’s early goal ensured Colombia had to respond, and the South Americans gradually established greater control of possession.

Colombia held 55% of the ball and were rewarded for their increasing influence in the 26th minute. Fernanda Viafara converted from the penalty spot after Briceno was penalised for a foul, bringing the scores level before the interval.

The two sides went into half-time tied after a balanced first 45 minutes, but Colombia returned with greater authority after the break. Their improvement was reflected in the way they controlled the match and created opportunities in the final third.

Silva completed Colombia’s turnaround in the 56th minute, putting the South Americans in front for the first time. Costa Rica were unable to regain the composure and possession they had shown early in the match as Colombia continued to press for a decisive third goal.

That goal arrived in the 80th minute, when Cortes finished from an Ortegon pass to give Colombia a two-goal cushion. Ortegon later missed a penalty towards the end of the match, but the missed opportunity did not affect the outcome.

Costa Rica’s grip on the ball weakened significantly after the interval. They ended the game with only 38% possession, as Colombia imposed themselves for long periods and limited their opponents’ ability to build sustained attacks.

The statistical difference between the teams was particularly clear in the attacking numbers. Colombia attempted 19 shots and created six clear chances, underlining their superiority in the second half and explaining the final margin of victory.

After conceding so early, Colombia showed the resilience needed to turn the match around. The equaliser from Fernanda Viafara restored balance before Silva and Cortes completed the comeback, allowing Colombia to open their tournament with three points.