England recorded a stunning victory in the U17 World Cup final, in Kolkata, scripting a 'come-from-behind' win against Spain to win their first ever U17 World Cup trophy.
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On an emotional night for the Young Lions, goals from Rhian Brewster, Morgan Gibbs-White and Marc Guehi in addition to a brace from Phil Foden overturned a two-goal deficit.
Speaking after the game on a clearly emotional night for England, coach Steve Cooper exclaimed, "Speechless! Surreal!"
"Will feel a bit better tomorrow after we realize what we have done. Players and the management were fantastic all throughout the tournament.
"We were 2-0 down in a World Cup final and in my opinion, against the run of play winning the game 5-2 tells you the character of the England players.
"I dedicate the win to the good work done by the academies and the Football Association (FA).
"These players were in the system for 4 to 5 years. It's been (quite) a journey.
"It's a recognition of English football. This shows we can go beyond after winning the U20 and U17 World Cup. We played like the way we wanted to play. We were brave on the ball, passed, passed and passed and there was a good individual plan up top as well. We have a plan for each game."
Praising the venue, the former Liverpool academy coach expressed, "Need to give Kolkata a special mention."
"Playing six of our seven games, the crowd were complimentary and positive about what we do.
"Whatever happened to today, we go back a much better England staff. Thanks to India, they hosted a real top tournament in so many ways."
Focusing on the proceedings of the match, Cooper was questioned about his team falling behind by two goals in the opening 30 minutes, to which he replied, "We didn't panic. We were the ones that took the initiative. We should have scored in the opening few minutes.
"I always thought we were in control of the game even when we were 2-0 down," he said.
"The halftime talk was not much different but yes, we knew that we need a bit more quality on top of the pitch.
"It's a little bit crazy in the dressing room, to be honest."
Quizzed if England beat Spain at their own game the coach replied, "England beat Spain by playing our own game. This is us doing our own thing our own way. So this is rewarding."
"We hope a legacy has been left in India for football. When I came for the draw in July, I saw massive passion and excitement for the World Cup. Results didn't go the India U17s way but they can take massive heart out of their performances. Hopefully, more kids will kick the ball (in the future)," remarked the coach on the Indian football team's fortunes and overall outlook for Indian football.
"The kids are enjoying their moment. They deserve it. Showed a lot of heart. Still early in their careers. Important to let them enjoy," replied the 37-year-old, when asked about how the English internationals were soaking in their big moment.
Phil Foden has scripted an independent tale during the tournament, winning the Golden Boy award for his excellent performances, and the coach had nothing but glowing praises for the whole team.
"Foden got the Golden Ball but each of the 21 members have got a gold medal around their neck. I am not the one to talk about individuals. Joel (Latibeaudiere) and Angel (Gomes), the non-playing captain picked up the trophy together without anyone telling them. This typifies the togetherness in our team. I can give you 21 stories about the 21 players why we won the world cup."