Portugal Advances to U-17 World Cup Final After Dramatic Shootout Against Brazil

Portugal needed penalties to eliminate Brazil and book their ticket to the Final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar 2025, where they will face a surprising Austria — a nation playing this stage for the very first time in its history.

Brazil and Portugal delivered a semifinal worthy of a final. Neither team allowed space, both pressed aggressively, and every duel was fought with intensity. The match ended in a draw, forcing the decision from the penalty spot. In the other semifinal, Austria defeated Italy 2–0 with two goals from Johannes Moser — a result that sealed a historic qualification for the Austrian side, who had never advanced this far in the tournament.

Mexico was also impacted by this tournament after their heavy 5–1 defeat to Portugal in the Round of 16 — a performance that cemented Portugal’s status as a contender for the title. The Final between Portugal and Austria will be played on Thursday at 10:00 AM at Khalifa International Stadium, where the next U-17 world champion will be crowned.

Portugal enters the Final as the clear favorite after an almost flawless campaign — aside from their tense semifinal against Brazil. Their attack has been one of the most efficient of the tournament, and their defense has remained composed in critical moments. Austria, meanwhile, arrives in the biggest match in its youth-football history. Their path has drawn less media attention, but has been extremely effective — and their victory over Italy proved that their presence in the Final is no fluke.

Both teams now stand one match away from glory — Portugal chasing another chapter in their youth-tournament legacy, and Austria chasing the most improbable and emotional title run in its history.