The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ group stage produced 250 goals and a host of memorable moments. Several star performers have also emerged, and here FIFA highlights ten standout talents to keep an eye on in the knockout phase.
Cavan Sullivan (USA)
One of USA’s brightest prospects, Sullivan has proved the hype is real. In USA’s first game against Burkina Faso, he came off the bench to hit the winning goal, just 48 hours after being involved in a MLS squad for Philadelphia Union. In the second match, he netted against Tajikistan, before delivering a Player-of-the-Match display in their victory over Czechia.
Jonathan Kalimina (Zambia)
The powerful left foot of Kalimina was one of Zambia’s most lethal weapons during the group stage. He made three assists and scored once in the first two matches. In the third, he was on target with an ‘Olimpico’ goal against Brazil.
Samuele Inacio (Italy)
Three games, three wins, three Player of the Match trophies. Inacio has taken over Group A with his electric performances. The No10 is joint top of the adidas Golden Boot race with four goals.
Inacio on Neymar, hobbies and superpowers
Reigan Heskey (England)
England started off the World Cup with a shock defeat to Venezuela, but Heskey has been key to the Three Lions’ impressive response. In subsequent wins over Haiti and Egypt, he scored three goals. The son of former England striker Emile Heskey, he has proved to be one of the most dangerous players in Qatar.
Shuji Muramatsu (Japan)
In a tough group with European champions Portugal and African kings Morocco, Japan only conceded just one goal. A key part of that success was goalkeeper Shuji Muramatsu, who made several stunning saves.
James Bogere (Uganda)
Bogere’s goals took Uganda to their first World Cup in history. His goals are also taking the country to another level in Qatar. He scored his first one in the defeat by 2-1 to Canada, before netting the winner in a historic 1-0 win over France, which booked Uganda’s ticket to the Round of 32.
Emile Witbooi (South Africa)
With two goals and three eye-catching performances so far, the skilful and dynamic Witbooi has been South Africa’s talisman as they have qualified for the Round of 32.
Matias Satas (Argentina)
Satas combines tenacity, leadership and quality, in the true sprit of an Argentinian defender. He was central in helping his country reach the Round of 32 with three victories from three.
Noah Fernandez (Belgium)
Fernandez’s outstanding technical quality has shone through for Belgium. He has scored twice in the group phase, including a wonderful free-kick against Fiji.
Marcos Maitan (Venezuela)
Few listed Venezuela as favourites to win a group which also featured Egypt and England, but that’s exactly what they did. Skipper Maitan’s commanding defensive performance were key to that, and he also contributed a goal in the 1-1 draw against Egypt.
