2025 U17 World Cup: High stakes and fresh hopes in wide-open Group D

Argentina, Belgium, Tunisia, and Fiji have been drawn together in Group D of the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, creating a balanced and unpredictable contest that blends global pedigree with emerging ambition.

Argentina enter the tournament as one of the most experienced sides at this level, taking part in the U17 World Cup for the 17th time.

Their history in the competition includes three bronze medals in 1991, 1995, and 2003, while a fourth-place finish in the previous edition reaffirmed their status among the elite.

With four CONMEBOL titles also to their name, expectations remain high for the Albiceleste, who arrive with another promising generation aiming to compete for a long-awaited first world crown in this age category.

Belgium, in contrast, are relative newcomers on the global U17 stage.

Their campaign in Qatar will be just their third World Cup appearance, but the Red Devils have demonstrated growing strength over recent years.

A third-place finish in 2015 remains their best achievement, and their impressive run at the 2025 U17 European Championship showed they remain competitive among Europe’s best.

Belgium will look to carry that momentum into this group, confident in their ability to challenge for a top-two finish.

Tunisia travel to Qatar with a sense of renewed ambition.

The North African side is appearing in the tournament for the fourth time, having previously reached the knockout stages in 2007 and 2013.

A quarter-final run at the most recent U17 Africa Cup of Nations highlighted continued progress within the youth ranks.

The Carthage Eagles’ strength lies in their discipline and collective organisation, qualities that could make them a difficult proposition for any opponent in this group.

Fiji complete the Group D lineup and head to the World Cup with history already made.

Their participation marks the nation’s maiden appearance at U17 global level, providing a significant step for Oceania football development.

Entering as underdogs, Fiji will look to gain valuable experience but may also seize the chance to spring surprises against more established teams.

Their journey alone is a milestone, yet they will be eager to show they are not present merely to make up the numbers.

With all four nations bringing contrasting styles and motivations, qualification from Group D is far from predictable.

Giant-killings, tactical battles, and emerging talents could all shape what unfolds.

Group D fixtures

Monday, 3 November 2025
• 14:45 GMT – Argentina vs Belgium
• 15:45 GMT – Tunisia vs Fiji

Thursday, 6 November 2025
• 13:30 GMT – Argentina vs Tunisia
• 15:45 GMT – Belgium vs Fiji

Sunday, 9 November 2025
• 12:30 GMT – Argentina vs Fiji
• 12:30 GMT – Belgium vs Tunisia

As the countdown to kickoff continues, Group D stands out as one of the most intriguing matchups in Qatar — a blend of tradition, promise, and the pursuit of new football milestones.