SAN JOSE, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- Costa Rica debuted at FIFA U-17 World Cup held in Chile with a 2-1 victory against South Africa, local press reported Tuesday.

Costa Rica and South Africa played their first match in the tournament at Ester Roa Stadium, in the Chilean city of Concepcion (center south). Both teams are part of Group E.

The first goal of Costa Rica was scored by Kevin Masis in the 7th minute. The Costa Rican squad deployed a good defense strategy so they kept the advantage during the first half.

In the second half South Africa went forward in the field and pressed the rival. Despite of this, Khanyisa Mayo failed two clear opportunites and Costa Rica, by Andy Reyes, scored its second goal in the 63rd minute.

In the last minute, Mayo scored South Africa's only goal.

Costa Rica will face Russia on Oct. 22, while South Africa will play against Democratic People's Republic of Korea.