CATCHING THE EYE

SOUTH AFRICA MAKES JUST A SECOND APPEARANCE AT THE UNDER-17 WORLD CUP

- By Nick Said

The 2025 Under-17 World Cup, set to take place in Qatar from 3-27 November, is shaping up to be one of the most exciting youth tournaments in recent memory.

This edition is historic, featuring 48 teams for the first time, an expansion that allows emerging football nations to compete on the global stage alongside established powers.

The tournament promises a rich blend of styles, tactical approaches, and individual talents, with a spotlight on South Africa's Amajimbos, who aim to make a significant impact in a competitive field.

For many of the players it is a chance to catch the eye of European clubs and perhaps put themselves on the path to a lucrative career in the game.

Any club worth its salt will be looking out for the best players from Europe, South America, Asia and Africa, meaning this could be a life-changing event for many.

This will be just South Africa’s second ever visit to the global finals after an appearance in 2015 under coach Molefi Ntseki, where they exited in the group stages.

While South Africa's journey under current coach Vela Khumalo will be closely watched, other teams from Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa are bringing squads brimming with potential.

South Africa qualified for the World Cup via the TotalEnergies Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, held earlier this year in Morocco.

With Africa having 10 qualifiers for the World Cup, a quarterfinal spot was enough to guarantee a trip to Qatar, though that was as far as South Africa got following a loss to Morocco.