Portugal win FIFA Under-17 World Cup for 1st time
DOHA, Qatar – Portugal won the FIFA Under-17 World Cup for the first time on Thursday, defeating Austria 1-0 in the final. Benfica forward Anísio Cabral scored the decisive goal in the 32nd minute, sealing the inaugural title in the expanded 48-nation tournament.
Cabral broke the deadlock after timing his run to stay just onside before finishing into an open net from close range. The 17-year-old finished the competition with seven goals, one short of Austria forward Johannes Moser, who won the Golden Ball.
The result capped a landmark achievement for Portugal, who lifted the trophy in the 20th edition of the competition, which FIFA now stages annually instead of every two years. The victory also underscored the strength of European youth development, with European nations taking the top three places.
Qatar hosted the tournament for the first time and will remain the venue for the next four editions as part of FIFA’s strategic expansion of the youth event. The format has widened global participation and increased visibility for emerging talents across the football landscape.
Earlier on Thursday, Italy secured third place by defeating Brazil 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. Goalkeeper Alessandro Longoni made two saves to help the Italians finish on the podium.
Portugal’s triumph highlights the continued progression of its youth system and the nation’s production line of technically proficient attacking players, while Austria’s run to the final further signals the growing depth in European youth football.