The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 launched on November 3 with eight matches at the Aspire Zone Competition Complex, marking the first 48-team edition of the youth tournament. Hosts Qatar fell 1-0 to Italy in their opening Group A clash at the Mansour Muftah pitch. The event runs through November 27, featuring 104 matches across 48 nations.
The tournament's opening day highlighted the expanded format, with 48 teams divided into 12 groups competing for glory. Qatar, placed in Group A alongside Italy, South Africa, and Bolivia, started with a narrow defeat to the Italians. The match took place on one of eight pitches recently renamed to honor Qatari football legends.
Local Organising Committee Chairman H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani emphasized the event's significance, stating: "We are proud to host the first-ever 48-team FIFA tournament, which will showcase football’s exceptional emerging talent and celebrate the sport’s power in uniting people from all around the world." He added that it represents Qatar's commitment to advancing football, noting: "As the first of five U-17 tournaments that Qatar will host, this event is another testament of the country’s enduring commitment to advancing football at all levels."
The schedule includes the group stage from November 3 to 11, followed by knockout rounds leading to the final on November 27 at Khalifa International Stadium. Five nations make their debut: Fiji, Republic of Ireland, Zambia, El Salvador, and Uganda. Qatar aims to surpass their best finish of fourth place in the 1991 edition held in Italy.
Tickets are available exclusively through www.roadtoqatar.qa via the RoadtoQatar app, with options like Day Pass (QR 20), Prime Pass (QR 30), and Follow My Team for Qatar's group stage games. All tickets are digital, including accessible seating for fans with disabilities. The Fan Zone at Aspire Zone offers live screenings, performances, and cultural activities from 1:30 pm on match days.
This edition builds on the tournament's legacy of launching stars like Gianluigi Buffon, Luis Figo, and Neymar. The official anthem is “TMRW’S GOAT” by Nour and Yarden, and the mascot is BOMA the Desert Owl.
