Doha, Qatar: The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 is all set to commence tomorrow at the state-of-the-art Competition Complex in Aspire Zone. Over the next 25 days, Qatar will host the stars of tomorrow, as the country gets ready to welcome fans from across the world once again.

Here are 10 things to look forward to at the upcoming tournament:

First FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams

This is the biggest ever edition of the youth tournament and the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams from across the world who will be competing for the coveted trophy.

Catch the football action at one venue

All 104 matches of the tournament will take place across eight pitches at the Competition Complex in Aspire Zone. The unique hosting concept will allow fans to enjoy the football activities in one single venue. The Final will take place at Khalifa International Stadium, also located in Aspire Zone.

Attend up to eight matches a day with a Day Pass

The group stage through to the Round of 32 will stage up to eight matches a day. With a Day Pass, fans will be able to attend multiple matches a day and soak in all the football action.

Five teams are making their debut

Amongst participating teams, Fiji, Republic of Ireland, Zambia, El Salvador and Uganda are set to make their debut, with many fans expected to travel to Qatar to cheer on their teams from the stands.

Football-festival atmosphere for the whole family

Football fans will be treated to a vibrant fan zone on match days. The fan zone will be operational on match days only, from 1:30pm until the final whistle, offering culinary experiences as well as live match screenings.

A celebration of cultural diversity

A variety of cultural programmes will run from 4pm-8pm at the fan zone, on match days. From folkloric performances to live bands, fans will revel in a celebration of global diversity.

Giving youth a platform

As future stars get set to shine on the pitch, the tournament will also be a celebration of young talents outside the pitch. Qatar's youth will play an active role in bringing the fan zone to life through participation in a variety of activities, from e-gaming to cultural performances by students.

Meet BOMA – the tournament mascot

BOMA the Owl – the official mascot for FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 – will make special appearances throughout the tournament. The mascot is inspired by the legendary Serbian coach Velibor“Bora” Milutinović, whose career as both coach and talent scout has influenced football development in Qatar and across the world.

Barrier-free experience for all disabled fans

The tournament will ensure inclusivity through accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible seating options as well as audio-descriptive commentary in English and Arabic for selected matches. A dedicated sensory room will provide an inclusive space for fans with neurodivergent needs.

Community comes together

Several local entities such as Qatar Foundation Pre-University Education, Qatar Scouts and Guides Association, Doha Film Institute, and Torba Market, amongst others, will be present at the Fan Zone, bringing the community together through a variety of offerings, such as creative workshops, movie nights, story-telling session, fitness challenges and many more.

Aspire Zone is located within close proximity to Al Aziziyah (Gold line) metro station.

Fans can purchase tickets here.

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