Post by : Mara Khaled
Team Senegal delivered a commanding performance in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, defeating the United Arab Emirates (UAE) 5-0 in the third round of Group C matches held on Sunday. The result marked one of the most impressive wins of the tournament so far, showcasing Senegal’s strength, skill, and tactical superiority.
With this dominant victory, Senegal reached seven points, topping Group C on goal difference. They are tied with Croatia, who also have seven points after defeating Costa Rica 3-1 in another match. Both Senegal and Croatia have now secured direct qualification to the Round of 32, while the UAE and Costa Rica, with just one point each, have been eliminated.
From the first whistle, Senegal looked confident and focused. Their forwards displayed excellent coordination, pressing the UAE defense from all sides. The opening goal came early in the match, setting the tone for a one-sided contest. The UAE struggled to regain possession or build any meaningful attack, while Senegal maintained control with precise passing and quick counterattacks.
As the game progressed, Senegal’s attacking rhythm only improved. Their midfield dominated the play, linking defense and offense seamlessly. The UAE defense was unable to cope with the continuous pressure, conceding more goals as Senegal’s wingers exploited open spaces on both flanks.
The UAE team entered the match needing a win to keep their qualification hopes alive. However, they faced difficulties in maintaining possession and building momentum. Despite their efforts, their defense was frequently breached by Senegal’s fast-moving forwards.
By halftime, the UAE were already trailing by multiple goals, and their morale appeared to drop. Although they tried to regroup in the second half, Senegal continued to attack relentlessly, converting their chances efficiently. The UAE managed a few counterattacks but failed to make any serious attempts on goal.
The final whistle confirmed Senegal’s 5-0 victory and their position at the top of Group C. They finished level on points with Croatia but edged ahead on goal difference thanks to their superior attacking display. This win also extended Senegal’s unbeaten run in the tournament, highlighting their potential as one of the strongest teams in this year’s competition.
Senegal’s consistent performance in the group stage—combining solid defense, sharp finishing, and confident teamwork—has made them favorites to advance deep into the knockout rounds.
In another Group C encounter, Croatia defeated Costa Rica 3-1 to secure their own place in the Round of 32. Croatia’s attacking approach proved too strong for the Costa Rican defense, as they scored twice in the first half and added a third in the second to seal victory. Costa Rica, despite a late consolation goal, could not recover and ended their campaign with just one point.
With both Senegal and Croatia advancing, Group C concluded with two European and African representatives moving forward, leaving Costa Rica and the UAE behind.
Meanwhile, in Group A action, Italy continued their excellent form by defeating South Africa 3-1. With this win, Italy completed the group stage with a perfect record of three victories, collecting a total of nine points to top their group.
Italy’s strong defensive structure and efficient attack once again proved successful. Their early goal gave them confidence, and they maintained control throughout the match. South Africa, despite showing spirit, could not match Italy’s consistency.
Following the third-round matches, Italy finished first in Group A with nine points, guaranteeing their spot in the Round of 32. South Africa, with four points, took second place and remain in contention. Qatar, sitting third with two points, still have an outside chance depending on other group results, while Bolivia finished last with only one point.
Italy’s clean sweep in the group stage demonstrated their readiness for tougher challenges in the knockout phase.
As the group stage nears completion, several teams, including Senegal, Croatia, and Italy, have now officially qualified for the next round. The knockout matches will feature some of the best youth football talents from around the world, and excitement continues to build for fans following the tournament in Qatar.
Senegal will look to carry their winning momentum forward as they prepare for tougher competition in the Round of 32. Meanwhile, the UAE and Costa Rica will return home to analyze their performances and prepare for future youth tournaments.
Senegal’s emphatic 5-0 win over the UAE not only confirmed their advancement but also sent a strong message to other teams in the tournament. Their combination of technical ability, teamwork, and determination has made them one of the standout sides in the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025.
As the knockout stage approaches, all eyes will be on Senegal, Italy, and other top performers to see who will continue their march toward the prestigious youth football title.
Dubai Launches Commercial Driverless Taxis with Apollo Go
Dubai Taxi Company partners with Baidu’s Apollo Go to launch driverless taxis, advancing Dubai’s sma
Amelia Kerr Leads NZ to Record ODI Run Chase Against SA
Amelia Kerr’s unbeaten 179 powers New Zealand to record-breaking 348-run chase, beating South Africa
Sharjah Issues New Rules for Electric Vehicle Chargers
Sharjah’s Executive Council sets rules for EV charging stations, detailing installation, tariffs, sa
China VC Funding Hits Record on State-Driven Tech Push
China’s venture capital fundraising is set to hit a record in Q1 2026, led by state-backed investors
Russian Military Plane Crash in Crimea Kills 29 People
A Russian An-26 military plane crashed in Crimea, killing 29 onboard. Authorities suspect technical
IBPC Dubai AGM Strengthens India-UAE Economic Ties
IBPC Dubai AGM highlights growth, inclusivity, and upcoming conclaves, reinforcing India-UAE economi
EU Urges Protection of UNIFIL After Peacekeeper Deaths
EU nations demand protection of UNIFIL forces after deadly attacks, urging restraint and warning aga
Bank of Baroda Faces Abu Dhabi Legal Battle over NMC Collapse
Bank of Baroda’s involvement in Abu Dhabi litigation tied to the NMC Healthcare collapse raises repu
Top Museum Openings of 2026 Set to Transform Global Tourism
From Los Angeles to Abu Dhabi and Brussels, 2026 brings major museum launches—Lucas Museum, Guggenhe
UAE Tour Highlights UAE’s Strength in Hosting Global Sports Events
Abu Dhabi Sports Council says the successful UAE Tour reflects the UAE’s leading role in hosting maj
EU Seeks Clarity from US After Supreme Court IEEPA Ruling
European Commission urges full transparency from the US on steps after Supreme Court ruling, emphasi
SpaceX Launches 53 New Satellites for Expanding Starlink Network
SpaceX launches 53 Starlink satellites in two Falcon 9 missions, breaking reuse records and expandin
RTA Awards Contract for Phase II of Hessa Street Upgrade in Dubai
Phase II of Hessa Street Development to add bridges, tunnel, and upgraded intersections, doubling ca
UAE Gold Prices Today, Monday 16 February 2026: Dubai & Abu Dhabi Updated Rates
Gold prices in UAE on 16 Feb 2026 updated: 24K around AED 599.75/gm, 22K AED 555.25/gm, and 18K AED
Over 25 Ahmedabad Schools Receive Bomb Threat Email, Authorities Investigate
More than 25 schools in Ahmedabad evacuated after bomb threat emails mentioning Khalistan. Authoriti