African sides kicked off the FIFA Under-17 World Cup 2025 in style, with South Africa and Tunisia claiming emphatic opening-day wins at the Aspire Zone in Al Rayyan, Qatar.
South Africa defeated Bolivia 3–1 in Group A, while Tunisia crushed Fiji 6–0 in Group D.
Elsewhere, Senegal drew 0–0 with Croatia, and Morocco fell 2–0 to Japan.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Sive Pama’s red card in the 36th minute, South Africa stayed composed. Two minutes later, Emile Witbooi fired them ahead, finishing coolly after his first effort hit the post.
Substitute Alwande Booysen made an instant impact, setting up Neo Bohloko for South Africa’s second with a perfect low cross.
Bolivia hit back through Jesus Maraude’s Panenka penalty, but Booysen turned provider again, assisting Shaun Els for a late tap-in that sealed victory.
South Africa face hosts Qatar next on Thursday.
In Group D, Tunisia dominated Fiji, with Wassim Slama and Fedi Tayechi each scoring twice. Anisse Saidi and Saïfedin Haj Abdallah added to the rout, the biggest win of the tournament so far.
Tunisia now prepare for a tougher test against Argentina.
Senegal created more chances than Croatia but couldn’t find a goal, settling for a draw. They’ll aim to bounce back against Costa Rica in their next match.
Morocco, meanwhile, must regroup after a 2–0 defeat to Japan, with Portugal awaiting them next.
The Under-17 World Cup format allows the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed sides to advance to the Round of 32, keeping qualification hopes alive for all African contenders.
