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Give every talent a chance' at FIFA U-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 29, 2026, 1:02 PM

Last updated Oct 29, 2026

Give every talent a chance' at FIFA U-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan

Summary

The inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival is underway in Baku, Azerbaijan, featuring 189 participating nations. Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, now FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, praised the tournament's success and its role in connecting emerging and established football nations. The event, which began on October 22, utilizes an innovative eight-a-side format on smaller pitches, allowing more than 3,000 players and coaches to compete in nearly 1,000 matches across 20 venues. The tournament will conclude on October 30, with the crowning of champions across six performance tiers.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Tournament features 189 nations in a new format
•Matches held across 20 pitches in Baku
•Wenger emphasizes equal opportunities for emerging nations
•Finals scheduled for October 30, 2026
•Next edition to include girls' teams from 2027

Latest Updates

1:02 PMYahoo Sports — 'Give every talent a chance' - Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hails impact of innovative 8v8 FIFA U-15 World Cup featuring 189 nations in Azerbaijan

What they're saying

"
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised the success of the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku after watching 189 member associations compete in a revamped eight-a-side format. Serving as FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, the Frenchman believes the event bridges the gap between emerging and established nations.
— Yahoo Sports

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