FIFA U17 World Cup: Senegal advance to knockout stage with 5-0 win over UAE in final group game

Senegal have booked their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U17 Men’s World Cup after smashing the United Arab Emirates (UAE) 5-0 in their final group match.

In the match played on Sunday, the Young Lions of Teranga took full control from the start, racing to a 3–0 lead by half-time before wrapping up the contest with two more goals in the second half.

Senegal continued to dominate after the break but had a brief scare in the 56th minute when Malick Ndour made a crucial goal-line clearance to preserve their clean sheet. Moments later, Bakary Sonko completed his hat-trick with a fine finish following a delightful pass from captain El Hadji Cissé to make it 4–0.

Despite a short spell of pressure from the UAE after several substitutions, Senegal quickly regained control. In the 74th minute, Victor Mendy added a fifth goal, assisted by Ndour, to round off a brilliant team display.

Calm, composed, and clinical, the Lionceaux managed the closing stages with maturity and precision.

The emphatic win not only showcased their attacking quality but also confirmed their progression to the Round 32 stage of the ongoing FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.