Portugal win U-17 World Cup as Wenger hails a “festival of football” in Qatar

Portugal have been crowned champions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 after edging Austria 1–0 in a tense final at Doha’s iconic Khalifa International Stadium, closing a month of drama, emerging stars and footballing spectacle in the Qatari capital.

The tournament, featuring 48 teams and over 100 matches, showcased the next generation of global football talent, with thrilling knockout rounds, breakout stars, and moments of brilliance at every turn. Portugal’s disciplined and cohesive performance throughout the month set them apart, culminating in their narrow victory in the final.

A final decided by a moment

The final was finely balanced, with both sides showing maturity beyond their years. The winning goal came in the 32nd minute when Anísio Cabral finished off a slick move down Portugal’s left side.

Austria pressed hard after the break, but Portugal’s defence held strong, showing composure and tactical awareness to preserve the lead.

Throughout the tournament, Portugal stood out for their fluid attacking play, intelligent movement between the lines, and consistency in key duels.

Their victory marks a milestone for Portuguese youth football and hints at a talented generation ready to make an impact at senior level.

A tournament of firsts

This edition was the biggest in the competition’s history. 48 teams competed across 100 matches, producing more than 300 goals.

The compact setting at Aspire Zone turned the tournament into a nonstop football festival, with fans and teams moving seamlessly between venues.

Moser’s rise, even in defeat

Austria may have finished runners-up, but Johannes Moser emerged as one of the tournament’s defining figures. The 17-year-old winger finished as top scorer with eight goals, leading his side to their first-ever World Cup final at any age level.

Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, described Moser as a rare type of player, “He’s a killer. He puts his energy into helping the team, works physically at the highest level and isn’t afraid to demand the ball. When he gets a chance, he goes to the end of it. He plays with belief — and that’s why I think he has a very bright future.”

Wenger: A global football festival

Wenger also reflected on the wider impact of the tournament and the atmosphere created in Doha, “For me, it was like being in paradise. To have the whole world together in such a short space and to be able to watch football from everywhere was fantastic.”

He described the Aspire Zone setup as a “football festival” that brought teams, coaches and football cultures together in one place.

A champion crowned, a generation revealed

For Portugal, the narrow win completes a remarkable tournament built on discipline, intelligence and belief. With the top three spots claimed by European teams, the final underscored the continent’s emerging wave of young talent.

Portugal lifted the trophy in Doha, while Italy U‑17 secured third place after a tense 4–2 penalty-shootout win over Brazil U‑17 following a goalless draw in regulation.

With the 2025 edition wrapped, Qatar prepares to host the next four U‑17 World Cups, promising more stages for emerging talent and continuing the legacy of a football festival that brought the world together.