Japan
How they qualified: AFC U-17 Asian Cup quarter-finalists
Previous participations: 10
Best U-17 World Cup result: Quarter-finalists (1993, 2011)
Coach: Nozomi Hiroyama
Yoshida starred at the U-17 Asian Cup, scoring three goals in four games, including a decisive brace against UAE to secure Japan’s U-17 World Cup spot. In April 2025, the forward made his Kashima Antlers debut aged just 16 years and nine months, becoming the youngest player ever to represent the club.
Morocco
How they qualified: CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations winners
Previous participations: 2
Best U-17 World Cup result: Quarter-finalists (2023)
Coach: Nabil Baha
One of Africa’s most exciting young players, Abdellah Ouazane has come through the ranks at Ajax’s famed academy. The midfield ace helps controls the tempo of play while also contributing defensively. Ouazane, who has reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid, was named Player of the Tournament at this year’s U-17 AFCON.
New Caledonia
How they qualified: OFC U-16 Championship third place
Previous participations: 2
Best U-17 World Cup result: Group stage (2017, 2023)
Coach: Leonardo Lopez
An elegant and intelligent midfielder, Canehmez already plays at senior level for ASC Gaica in New Caledonia’s first division. This experience should stand him in good stead as he takes on a leadership role in Leonardo Lopez’s team. A driving force in the New Caledonian midfield, he was integral to their U-17 World Cup qualification.
Portugal
How they qualified: UEFA European Under-17 Championship winners
Previous participations: 3
Best U-17 World Cup result: Third (1989)
Coach: Jose Lima
Benfica’s academy has a long tradition of finding gems for Portugal, and Tomas Soares looks set to be another star in the making. The talented midfielder shone during the nation’s triumphant U-17 EURO campaign. He scored and assisted in their quarter-final comeback win over Germany and was also on target against Italy in the last four.
