A Look at Mexico’s Rich History in the Tournament
Before bidding adieu to 2023, Mexico reignites one of its most passionate romantic stories in sports: the FIFA U-17 World Cup, where they have already clinched two titles (2005 and 2011).
From November 3 to 27, Qatar will host the 20th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup with a historic twist, as it will feature 48 teams for the first time. The tournament began with 16 teams in 1985 and was contested by 24 teams from 2007 to 2023.
Mexico stands proudly in the record books with its two championships won in Peru 2005 and as hosts in 2011, boasting generations that included stars like Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Fierro, and Julio ‘La Momia’ Gómez.
Only Nigeria, with five titles (1985, 1993, 2007, 2013, and 2015), and Brazil, with four (1997, 1999, 2003, and 2019), surpass Mexico’s tally. Ghana holds two championships (1991 and 1995) at the top of the list.
Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, England, and the former USSR each have one title, reminding us that the FIFA U-17 World Cup takes place every two years and was only suspended in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mexico’s Quest for a Third Title
For Mexico, the upcoming tournament in Qatar 2025 presents another opportunity to pursue a third title with an attacking and dynamic style of play, according to head coach Carlos Cariño.
“We truly have a team with great dynamism, intensity, and always pushing forward. It seems we are in perfect condition to start the World Cup. Our strength lies in unity, as the team always goes forward and is very intense across all lines,” Cariño said before Mexico’s opening match.
Mexico’s Group F Details
Mexico shares Group F with South Korea, Ivory Coast, and Switzerland. They will face South Korea on November 4, Ivory Coast on November 7, and Switzerland on November 10.
With 48 teams participating, group winners and runners-up are guaranteed a spot in the knockout stage (starting from the round of 16), while the top eight third-place teams also advance.
This marks Mexico’s 16th appearance in the FIFA U-17 World Cup. They have successfully advanced past the group stage 10 times, with their most notable achievements being the titles won over Brazil in 2005 and Uruguay in 2011.
Since Peru 2005, Mexico has consistently qualified for the knockout stage in a consecutive manner, including their titles, runner-up finishes in 2013 and 2019, and a fourth-place finish in 2015.
“I believe the team is perfectly prepared. We understand the importance of the opening match, but the players are focused. The message to the fans is that they will witness a team always striving for the highest honors,” Cariño emphasized.
Coach’s Experience and Current Squad
During his playing days, Cariño represented Mexico in the U-20 World Cup at Malaysia 1997, alongside players like Joaquín Beltrán and Ignacio Hierro. He acknowledges that such experiences leave invaluable lessons for aspiring footballers.
“My experience in Malaysia was truly wonderful, especially the pressure of experiencing new environments. Today’s players have gone through this in professional leagues, playing in higher categories. They should embrace the responsibility, as they have the arguments to do so, and view this pressure positively if they aspire for greatness,” Cariño shared.
Just under a month ago, Mexico experienced another international youth football aspiration with the U-20 World Cup, though they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Argentina with a squad containing many experienced Liga MX players, including Gilberto Mora (Tijuana).
Mora, 17, could have participated in Qatar 2025 but is likely being rested for a potential call-up to the senior World Cup in the summer of 2026.
Among those called up by Cariño are Aldo De Nigris (Monterrey), Lucca Vuoso (Santos), Gael García (Chivas), and Íñigo Borgio (Leganés).
Mexico’s FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 Schedule
- Mexico vs. South Korea: Tuesday, November 4 at 7:00 AM (CDMX)
- Mexico vs. Ivory Coast: Friday, November 7 at 8:45 AM (CDMX)
- Mexico vs. Switzerland: Monday, November 10 at 6:30 AM (CDMX)
