DOHA: With the newly expanded 48-team FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 set to mark a new era for youth football, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has conveyed his best wishes to the host nation and Asia’s representatives ahead of Monday’s kick-off in Al Rayyan.
A record nine teams – AFC U17 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2025 quarter-finalists Japan, Indonesia, Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates, semi-finalists DPR Korea and Korea Republic, finalist Saudi Arabia and eventual champions Uzbekistan as well as host nation for the next five editions, Qatar – will look to capture a second title for the Continent in the 20th iteration of the global showpiece.
A total of 104 matches will take place from November 3, with all contests up until the Final to be staged across eight pitches at the state-of-the-art Aspire Zone complex before the iconic Khalifa International Stadium provides the backdrop for the eagerly anticipated decider on November 27.
Shaikh Salman said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, we wish the Qatari Authorities and FIFA the very best ahead of what can only be described as a defining moment, one that will transform the trajectory of world youth football for generations to come.
“Qatar are undoubtedly industry leaders in organising world-class football competitions and the whole of Asia stands united with immense confidence and pride in their abilities to deliver another momentous tournament.”
