U-17 World Cup to the greatest stage: Toni Kroos

Over the course of its 41-year history, the FIFA U-17 World Cup™ has been a showcase for several dazzling talents who have gone on the shine at the senior edition of the global finals. Ahead of the 2026 edition – which takes place in Qatar from 19 November to 13 December – we highlight some the stars who made an indelible mark on both tournaments.

Toni Kroos' poise, vision and immaculate ball-striking were on show when he inspired Germany to third place at the U-17 World Cup in 2007. The midfield maestro – who was named the tournament's best player – netted five goals, with his haul including a stunning free-kick against Ghana.

Seven years later and fully established in the senior national team, he was at the heart of a Germany side who were crowned world champions at Brazil 2014.

Perhaps his most famous World Cup moment, though, came at Russia 2018. With Germany and Sweden drawing 1-1 in a pivotal group-stage clash, Kroos curled home a spectacular 95th-minute winner. Relive that goal and his sumptuous strike against Ghana at the U-17 showpiece in the video above.