2025 FIFA U17: First-ever 48-team World Cup underway in Qatar

The 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup, the first in history to feature 48 teams, got off to a spectacular start in Qatar on Monday as the hosts took on Italy at the world-famous Aspire Zone in Doha.

Qatar narrowly lost 1–0 to Italy in front of a vibrant home crowd at the newly renamed Mansour Muftah pitch, one of eight venues within the Aspire Zone honoring Qatari football legends. A total of eight matches marked the opening day of this expanded global showpiece.

“We are proud to host the first-ever 48-team FIFA tournament, which will showcase exceptional emerging talent and celebrate football’s power to unite the world,” said HE Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, chairman of the Local Organizing Committee.

The 48 nations are divided into 12 groups of four, with the tournament running until 27 November. All matches are being staged in the Aspire Zone, except for the final at Khalifa International Stadium, amounting to a record 104 matches across eight pitches.

Five nations — Fiji, Republic of Ireland, Zambia, El Salvador, and Uganda — are making their U17 World Cup debuts.

Day One Highlights

Italy Edge Spirited Hosts

Qatar’s passionate fans created a deafening atmosphere, but Italy held firm for a hard-fought 1–0 win. Samuele Inacio scored the decisive goal in the first half, finishing clinically from Benit Borasio’s through ball. The hosts battled bravely but couldn’t find an equaliser.

“We stayed focused and together. This win gives us confidence to go far,” said Inacio, named Player of the Match.
“We competed against a really strong team. I’m proud of my players, and we’ll come back stronger against South Africa,” added Qatar coach Alvaro Mejia.

Ten-Man South Africa Stun Bolivia

A resilient South Africa defied the odds to beat Bolivia 3–1, even after Sive Pama was sent off midway through the first half. Emile Witbooi, Neo Bohloko, and Shaun Els were on target for the young Bafana Bafana, while Jesus Maraude scored Bolivia’s consolation from the spot.

“We kept pushing each other even with ten men — it’s all about teamwork,” said South African midfielder Kamohelo Mareletse, the match’s standout performer.

Japan Power Past Morocco

Asian giants Japan continued their fine U17 pedigree, opening their sixth consecutive tournament with a 2–0 victory over Morocco. Taiga Seguchi broke the deadlock with a stunning first-time strike after fine work from Hiroto Asada, before Daigo Hirashima sealed the win late on.

“It was a tough match where one goal could change everything. Once we scored, we controlled the game well,” said Japan coach Nozomi Hiroyama.
Morocco’s Nabi Baha urged calm: “It’s a tough defeat, but we’ll make amends against Portugal. We have faith in these players.”

Portugal Hit Five Past New Caledonia

After a sluggish start, Portugal recovered from conceding an early penalty to thrash New Caledonia 5–1. Anísio Cabral led the comeback with two goals, supported by strikes from Stevan Manuel, Mateus Mide, Mauro Furtado, and José Neto.

“We lacked efficiency early on but kept calm and took control in the second half,” said Portugal coach Bino Macaês.

Costa Rica Hold UAE Despite Red Card

Down to ten men, Costa Rica battled for a 1–1 draw against United Arab Emirates. After Isaac Badilla saw red, UAE went ahead through Mayed Adel, but Nick Bennette equalised moments later with a composed finish.

“We held on despite being a man down. The next match against Senegal will be close, but we’re ready,” said Bennette.

Tunisia Thrash Fiji

Tunisia delivered the day’s biggest statement with a 6–0 demolition of Fiji, their vibrant attacking play marking them as early contenders. Wassim Slama and Fedi Tayechi bagged braces, while Anisse Saidi and Saifedin Haj Abdallah completed the rout.

“The first 30 minutes were tough, but we found space and pushed hard,” said Tayechi, who collected the Player of the Match award. “We came here with ambition — not just to make up the numbers.”

Argentina Edge Belgium in Thriller

In one of the most entertaining matches of the opening day, Argentina edged Belgium 3–2. Ramiro Tulian put Argentina ahead before Arthur De Kimpe and Stan Naert turned the game for Belgium. But substitutes Facundo Jainikoski and Felipe Esquivel struck within four minutes to seal a dramatic comeback win for Diego Placente’s side.

“Belgium are a top team — physical, technical, and well-organised. I’m proud of our boys for showing character to come back twice,” said Placente, Argentina’s head coach.

Voices from the Camp

The opening day also highlighted the excitement of debutants and returning powers alike.

“We’re united, and our strength is collective. We’ll push one another to go far,” said Etienne Mendy, Senegal forward, whose team drew 1–1 with Croatia.
“It was a tough opponent, but one point is a good start. We’ll build on it,” added Jona Benkotic, Croatia winger.

A Promising Start

Matchday One delivered 27 goals across eight games, thrilling crowds and setting the tone for an action-packed tournament. From debutant nations making history to traditional powerhouses flexing early muscle, the expanded U17 World Cup has already lived up to its billing.