The 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar is now at its most critical juncture. The quarter-finals delivered drama, heartbreak, and breakout performances — and now, with the final four decided, the focus shifts to Khalifa International Stadium, where the semi-finals will bring heightened stakes and the brightest spotlight yet.
Drama on day of decision
Brazil sealed their place in the semi-finals in the most dramatic fashion possible. Dell, already on target earlier in the game, grabbed the winner deep into stoppage time, completing a 2–1 comeback against Morocco. The goal sent waves through the stadium, a fitting moment for a knockout match that had hung in the balance.
Austria became the first team to secure a spot in the last four. Johannes Moser curled a decisive finish in the second half — his sixth goal of the tournament — to defeat Japan 1–0. Austria’s win underscored their consistency and strong attacking threat throughout the competition.
Not far behind, Italy edged out Burkina Faso thanks to a late strike from Thomas Campaniello. The teenage forward seized on a loose ball and drove past defenders to deliver what would become the match-winner, lifting Italy into the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Portugal looked calm and controlled in their quarter-final, beating Switzerland 2–0. Mateus Mide opened the scoring after a clever buildup, and then José Neto rifled in a second with a powerful shot from distance.
These results — Brazil’s dramatic finish, Austria’s technical precision, Italy’s persistence and Portugal’s composure — have set up two intriguing semi-final clashes for Monday, 24 November.
A Platform for growth
While only one game now stands between these teams and the final, the tournament’s larger purpose resonates strongly at this stage. According to FIFA, the U-17 World Cup is more than just a contest for the trophy; it is deliberately structured to nurture young talent, to challenge them, and to give them a taste of real international competition beyond youth friendlies.
Pascal Zuberbühler, FIFA’s Senior Football Expert, articulated this vision clearly: “What FIFA created here together with Qatar and the Aspire Center is unique. It is very important to give under-17 players, coaches, staff and technical directors the opportunity to grow and especially to learn about different cultures.” His words echo through the tournament — a reminder that for many participants, this is as much about personal development as it is about glory.
Historic scale, festival atmosphere
This edition of the U-17 World Cup is already historic. With 48 national teams competing, it stands as the largest U-17 tournament ever held. That expansion has brought new depth to the competition, but also increased pressure and opportunity, as emerging football nations test themselves against established youth powerhouses.
Central to the tournament’s character is its design: Aspire Zone’s compact footprint has allowed fans to flit from pitch to pitch, while players experience a tightly knit schedule and high match rhythms. The layout has added a festival-like quality, turning each day into a showcase of youthful energy and ambition.
Bigger stage, bigger moment
Up to now, all of the World Cup’s matches have taken place in Aspire Zone’s constellation of pitches — a setting that fostered closeness, convenience, and constant action. But the semi-finals will mark a turning point: for the first time in the tournament, the action moves to Khalifa International Stadium.
That shift is symbolic. It signals the gravity of these semi-final ties and gives the young contenders a dramatic stage to prove themselves. The larger venue comes with bigger expectations — and for many of these players, an opportunity to step under the lights and play in front of more eyes.
Semi-Final matchups
On Monday, 24 November, two semi-final matches are scheduled:
- Austria vs Italy — a European showdown rooted in tactical discipline and physical endurance.
- Portugal vs Brazil — a clash of flair and power, with both teams boasting players capable of producing individual moments of brilliance.
These games will decide who plays in the final on 27 November at Khalifa International Stadium. For the players still standing, it’s more than a path to a trophy — it’s a chance to announce themselves on a global scale.