Sat Nov 01 07:41:35 UTC 2025: Qatar Gears Up to Host Expanded FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025
Doha, Qatar – The FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 is set to kick off in Qatar on November 3rd, marking the start of a historic tournament with an expanded field of 48 teams. The event will showcase the next generation of football talent, with the final scheduled for November 27th.
Qatar will host the tournament for the next five years, with all matches leading up to the final taking place across eight pitches at the Aspire Zone complex in Al Rayyan. The final will be held at the prestigious Khalifa International Stadium, which previously hosted matches during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
This year’s edition marks the third time the U-17 World Cup has been held in the Arab world. The tournament will follow a new format, with the 48 participating nations divided into 12 groups. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the round of 32, followed by a knockout stage.
Brazil, aiming for a record-equalling fifth title, is considered a favorite, along with Portugal, France, and Mexico. Several young talents are expected to shine, including Italy’s Samuele Inacio, France’s Djylian N’Guessan, Argentina’s Thomas de Martis, Uzbekistan’s Sadriddin Khasanov, and Morocco’s Abdellah Ouazane.
Tickets are currently on sale via FIFA’s official platform, with various options available, including day passes and dedicated tickets for Qatar’s matches. Broadcasters have been announced for key territories, promising extensive coverage of the event. Five nations, El Salvador, Fiji, Republic of Ireland, Uganda and Zambia will be making their debut in the tournament.