Portugal U17s 2-1 England U17s
Sunday, 10 February, 2013
Young Lions suffer from opposition comeback for second time in two days in Algarve Tournament
England U17s were the victims of an opposition comeback for the second game in a row in the Algarve Tournament on Sunday afternoon.
After taking an early lead against host nation Portugal on Sunday, two quickfire goals in the second half saw John Peacock's squad miss out on the chance of successfully defending their Algarve title.
And it came after the Young Lions suffered a similar fate against Germany in Friday's opening game of the competition, which they also lost 2-1 after taking the lead.
It had all started so well for England, with Crystal Palace midfielder Reise Allassani nodding his side in front after just five minutes of the game.
And Allassani almost made it 2-0 shortly after that, only for Portugal and Manchester United goalkeeper Joel Pereira to make a stunning close range save after 28 minutes.
Debutant Kasey Palmer also saw an effort deflected wide as England enjoyed the better of the first 40 minutes but only had one goal to show for it.
But with three half-time subs introduced, Portugal came back brighter after the break and defender Joao Lima headed them level after meeting a free-kick just moments after the re-start.
And their comeback was complete before the hour mark when striker Marcio Martins, who plies his trade with West Ham United, stroked them in front with what proved to be the winning goal.
England play their third and final game of the Algarve Tournament on Tuesday morning when they face the Netherlands.
To see the line-ups, click on the Team Sheet link above.