Portugal clinch first U-17 World Cup title

DOHA: Portugal clinched their maiden FIFA U 17 World Cup title, defeating Austria 1 0 in the final as the historic 48 team tournament concluded with s...

DOHA: Portugal clinched their maiden FIFA U-17 World Cup title, defeating Austria 1-0 in the final as the historic 48-team tournament concluded with spectacular fireworks at Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday.

Anisio Cabral’s close-range strike, assisted by Duarte Cunha in the 32nd minute, proved decisive, leaving Austria trailing despite their all-out efforts in their first-ever final at any stage.

This marks Portugal’s second major trophy of the year, following their U-17 European Championship triumph, while Austria ended as runners-up in their first World Cup final.

Austria, unbeaten until the final, pressed for an equaliser, with Daniel Frauscher hitting the left post. Portugal goalkeeper Romario Cunha was crucial in preserving the lead, making several key saves, including tipping away Ifeanyi Ndukwe’s header.

Austria’s Johannes Moser, who scored eight goals in the tournament, claimed the Golden Boot, with Cabral finishing with seven.