A detailed breakdown of the four FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 quarter-final matches scheduled for Friday, 21 November.
Austria U17 vs Japan U17
Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
The Matchup
Austria brings an organized, physical approach, while Japan relies on technical, high-tempo football. Austria’s strengths lie in their compact structure and efficient finishing. Japan thrives on quick passing, fluid movement, and sustained pressing.
Key Tactical Battle
The contest hinges on Japan’s ability to break Austria’s defensive block. If Austria disrupts Japan in midfield and counterattacks effectively, they can threaten. However, Japan’s superior technical level and fitness give them the advantage. Their midfield runners and rotation in the final third should eventually open the Austrian defense.
Key Players
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Austria: Central midfielder and captain, the main engine behind their pressing.
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Japan: Number 10, the creator linking midfield with attack.
Prediction
Japan U17 to win.
Predicted Score
2–1
Italy U17 vs Burkina Faso U17
Kick-off: 13:30 GMT
The Matchup
Italy enters with tactical discipline and strong defensive structure. Burkina Faso has been the surprise package of the tournament, using power, pace, and counter-attacks to overwhelm opponents.
Key Tactical Battle
This is a contrast between Italian structure and African athleticism. Italy must handle Burkina Faso’s pace in transition. Burkina Faso must avoid conceding early, as Italy becomes extremely difficult to break once leading. Italy’s experience and positional discipline may give them the narrow edge in a tense encounter.
Key Players
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Italy: Samuele Inacio, the clinical finisher capable of deciding tight games.
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Burkina Faso: Mohamed Zongo, the driving force in midfield.
Prediction
Italy U17 to win.
Predicted Score
1–0
Portugal U17 vs Switzerland U17
Kick-off: 14:45 GMT
The Matchup
Portugal brings technical flair, sharp combinations, and high scoring potential. Switzerland relies on an aggressive high press and heavy shot volume created through forced turnovers.
Key Tactical Battle
This match is likely to be open and high scoring. Switzerland’s press will test Portugal’s composure in buildup. In return, Portugal’s wingers and fullbacks can exploit the spaces behind the Swiss pressure. Portugal’s multiple attacking outlets give them a slight edge.
Key Players
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Portugal: Central midfielder such as Martim Guedes, who controls tempo and creates in the final third.
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Switzerland: Main striker who anchors their pressing system.
Prediction
Portugal U17 to win.
Predicted Score
3–2
Morocco U17 vs Brazil U17
Kick-off: 15:45 GMT
The Matchup
Brazil enters as a five-time champion with exceptional individual talent. Morocco has shown incredible resilience, comeback spirit, and defensive strength throughout the tournament.
Key Tactical Battle
Morocco will rely on compact defense and fast counterattacks. They must restrict the space for Brazil’s key attackers, especially Dell and Ruan Pablo. Brazil will need patience and quick combinations around Morocco’s disciplined structure. Brazil’s depth and knockout-stage experience could decide the match through a late breakthrough.
Key Players
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Morocco: Captain and center-back taking extra responsibility due to Ilyas Hadaoui’s suspension. Ismail El Aoud leading transitions in attack.
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Brazil: Dell, their most dangerous scorer.
Prediction
Brazil U17 to win.
Predicted Score
2–1
