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FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 will be a huge motivation for next-gen players: Qatar's record goalscorer Almoez Ali

FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 will be a huge motivation for next-gen players: Qatar's record goalscorer Almoez Ali

The Hindu4 days ago
Only 100 days remain until the kick-off of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025. This will be the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams, ushering in a new generation of young players to shine on a global stage.
The prestigious youth competition will be held at the renowned Competition Complex at Aspire Zone, from November 3-27, with the final match taking place at Khalifa International Stadium, one of eight stadiums that hosted matches during Qatar 2022.
Almoez Ali, Qatar's top scorer of all time, having netted 60 goals in 123 caps, is a graduate of the renowned Aspire Academy, a cornerstone of the Aspire Zone, where the tournament will be played.
✔️ Equal most goals at an Asian Cup – Almoez Ali
✔️ Goal difference of 16-0
✔️ First team to not concede in opening six Asian Cup games
High-flying Qatar 🇶🇦 ticking off milestones at #AsianCup2019#WorldCup
Read more 👉 https://t.co/x6VLQQld1qpic.twitter.com/59Tcl6TpZG — FIFA (@FIFAcom) January 30, 2019
'The FIFA U-17 World Cup taking place at Aspire Zone will be a huge motivation for this next generation of players,' Ali said.
Ali was part of Qatar's U-20 team, made up entirely of Aspire Academy graduates, which lifted the Asian championship in 2014. Since then, Ali has also guided Qatar's senior national team to two back-to-back AFC Asian Cups in 2019 and 2023.
ALSO READ: Footballers' Union chief accuses FIFA of turning a 'blind eye to basic needs of players'
'They (the U-17 internationals) will all be looking to perform their best on the pitch. I'm sure they know how important this experience will be for their future,' said Ali.
The U-17 World Cup has often been the launchpad for future stars of the game, such as Xavi Hernandez (1997), Gianluigi Buffon (1993) and Phil Foden (2017) in recent times.
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