Alkass English
Qatar’s next generation of footballers will look to make their mark on home soil when the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 takes place from November 19 to December 13.
Featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, the tournament offers Qatar’s young players an opportunity to test themselves against international opposition, gain valuable experience and showcase their ability to a global audience.
The hosts have been drawn in Group A alongside Panama, Greece and Egypt. They begin their campaign against Panama on November 19 at the Aspire Zone competition complex, with home support expected to provide added motivation.
Captain Mohsen Al-Hajri, who also plays as a striker for Al Rayyan, said representing Qatar at the tournament would fulfil an ambition shared by young footballers around the world. He believes competing against players from different countries will help the squad develop while giving them a chance to demonstrate their quality.
Al-Hajri also highlighted the role Aspire Zone has played in his development. Having trained there from an early age, he credited its facilities and sporting environment with helping young athletes refine their skills.
For Qatar and Al Duhail midfielder Hadi Khalil, the World Cup represents an important step towards his longer-term ambitions. He hopes the experience of facing some of the world’s leading young talents will strengthen his game and help him progress towards the senior national team.
Head coach Álvaro Mejía shares that optimism. The Spaniard believes hosting a tournament of this scale gives Qatar’s players an exceptional opportunity to learn, compete and demonstrate the country’s passion for football.
Mejía also sees the competition as a stage for discovering future stars, with promising players from across the world gathering in Qatar.
The Aspire Zone competition complex will serve as the tournament’s central hub, with eight stadiums hosting matches. Bringing teams together in one location will also allow scouts to follow emerging talent closely. The previous edition attracted 130 scouts from leading clubs worldwide, underlining the competition’s importance as a pathway into professional football.
Preparations are continuing to deliver an engaging experience for supporters. Digital ticket options include day passes allowing fans to attend multiple matches, while a dedicated fan zone will offer cultural activities and entertainment. Premium tickets will also provide reserved seating for high-demand fixtures.
This year’s tournament is the second of five consecutive editions Qatar is scheduled to host through 2029, reinforcing its sustained investment in youth football.
The event forms part of a busy international football calendar for the country, which will also stage the final three matches of the Intercontinental Cup on December 9, 12 and 16.