Austria headed into their quarter-final FIFA U-17 World Cup™ clash with Japan on the back of sweeping aside England with a devastating display of attacking football.
Against the Samurai Blue, Hermann Stadler’s team had to show an altogether different side of their game. The Austrians were forced to deep into their reserves of resilience and competitive spirit to edge a 1-0 victory and secure their place in the last four. Johannes Moser fired them in front just after half-time, with Austria then standing firm to repel relentless Japanese pressure.
“It was the toughest match we ever played in our lives,” said captain and defender Jakub Pokorny. “Japan is a very good team and they played so well. But we are together and I feel like nobody can stop us. I think we can go all the way.”
Speaking in the aftermath of their 4-0 last-16 win over England, Moser revealed Pokorny gave a stirring speech ahead of the match, declaring “we are the best team at this World Cup”.
So, what was his message before the Japan showdown?
“I don’t remember exactly what I said!” said Pokorny. “I just say what comes into my head. I normally always give a speech before the games to push the guys, and it usually works! I’m so proud of the team.”
Match-winner Moser added: “I think the main reason we won was that we always believed in ourselves and never gave up. Everyone fought for each other. This mental strength, this will to win, is what sets us apart. That’s why we won. But I also have to compliment Japan. They were a really strong opponent.”
Next up for Austria is a semi-final against Italy on Monday, which will be a meeting between two sides who have won all six of their tournament matches.
Austria have now advanced further than any team in the nation’s history at the U-17 World Cup, and coach Stadler explained how their run has been built on the foundation of a solid backline.
“Our great strength is our defending,” said Stadler. “We have conceded just one goal in six matches, and it gives us a great chance to win. We are very proud to get to the final four. For a small country like Austria, it is very tough to do that. It is a great moment for the association, and for all young footballers in Austria. I think we have represented Austrian people very well.”
With his curling strike against Japan, meanwhile, Moser took his tally for the tournament to six goals. He is the joint leading marksman at Qatar 2025 with Portugal’s Anisio Cabral.
“I’m naturally pleased that I’ve scored so many goals,” Moser said. “However, my primary goal isn’t to win the Golden Boot, but to win the World Cup title together with the team. Also, I owe my goals to my team-mates. We function as a unit, and that’s the most important thing. But of course, I’m happy about every goal at the World Cup. It gives me confidence for the challenges ahead.”
While Moser was keen to deflect praise, Pokorny was more than eager to salute Austria’s goalscoring dynamo.
“Johannes’ speed, technique, shooting… He’s just incredible. I haven’t seen something like that before. He’s just a special player.”
