Mozambique’s Under-17 World Cup debut brings tests against Denmark, Argentina and Australia

Mozambique will make their first appearance at the Under-17 World Cup with a demanding group programme that begins against Denmark before meetings with Argentina and Australia.

The African side secured their place in the tournament after a fiercely contested play-off against Ethiopia. Mozambique eventually prevailed in a penalty shootout to complete their qualification and earn a place among the nations competing at the finals for the first time.

Their opening match will be against Denmark on 19 November, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. The Danish team’s defensive strength and overall solidity will provide an immediate challenge for Manuel Correia’s players in their first World Cup fixture.

Mozambique will then face Argentina on 22 November at 15:30. Argentina remain in pursuit of their first world title in this age group, adding further significance to a match that will pit the tournament newcomers against one of the established names in youth football.

The final game of Mozambique’s first-round schedule comes against Australia on 25 November. That fixture will begin at 15:30 and complete a group stage featuring three contrasting opponents.

Mozambique’s qualification was secured in dramatic circumstances. Their play-off with Ethiopia was played at a high intensity, with neither side able to settle the contest during the match. The outcome was decided from the penalty spot, where Mozambique held their nerve to claim victory.

That result means the team will now test themselves on the world stage for the first time. Their route through the opening phase starts with Denmark, before they take on Argentina and then Australia.

The complete Mozambique schedule for the first round of 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