Mozambique will make their first appearance at the Under-17 World Cup with a demanding group-stage programme that includes matches against Denmark, Argentina and Australia.
The African side secured their place at the tournament after a fiercely contested play-off against Ethiopia. Mozambique eventually prevailed in a penalty shootout, completing their qualification for the finals.
Their first match will be against Denmark on 19 November, when they will face a side whose defensive strength is expected to provide an immediate test. Mozambique will then meet Argentina three days later before completing their first-round campaign against Australia on 25 November.
Qualification represents a significant moment for Mozambique, who are among the nations competing at the Under-17 World Cup for the first time. Their reward is a group containing established opposition, including Argentina, described as one of the “heavyweights” of youth football.
The team, coached by Manuel Correia, will begin their campaign against Denmark at 15:00. The Danish side’s solidity is likely to place considerable demands on Mozambique in their opening game, before the schedule becomes even more challenging.
Argentina await on 22 November, with kick-off scheduled for 15:30. Although Argentina are one of the leading names in the competition, they are still seeking their first World Cup victory at this age group. Mozambique will therefore face another high-profile opponent as they continue to adjust to the demands of the finals.
The final group fixture comes against Australia on 25 November, also at 15:30. Mozambique will hope to finish the opening phase strongly after facing Denmark and Argentina.
Mozambique’s first-round schedule at the Under-17 World Cup is:
- 19 November, 15:00: Mozambique v Denmark - 22 November, 15:30: Argentina v Mozambique - 25 November, 15:30: Australia v Mozambique
The team’s place in the tournament was confirmed only after a dramatic qualifying play-off with Ethiopia. The match was played at full intensity and could not be settled during normal play, leaving the outcome to be decided from the penalty spot.
Mozambique held their nerve in the shootout to claim qualification and earn their place among the teams competing in the final tournament. Their opening fixture against Denmark will now mark the beginning of the country’s first Under-17 World Cup campaign, followed by meetings with Argentina and Australia in a demanding first-round programme.