Players relishing U-15 World Cup opportunity

The FIFA U-15 Youth World Cup & Festival 2026™ is off and running. Teams from all corners of the globe have convened in Baku, Azerbaijan, with many nations appearing on a FIFA World Cup stage for the first time ever.

For the players, the experience has already been a memorable one, with many more magical moments sure to come. Have a look at what some of the competitors are saying about this global extravaganza.

Christopher Johnston, Scotland

"It’s amazing to think that no other U15/16 squad has had this opportunity to do this for Scotland and it’s something I will remember for the rest of my life."

Zven Cutajar, Malta

"It’s the first one, so I think it would be nice if we [make] a good impact on it. As a small island, Malta, it would be nice to [make] a name for our country."

Zayden Brown, Montserrat

"It’s great. Seeing all the countries walk around, different kids, getting to talk to people, playing football and tennis outside. It’s crazy. I never thought I’d be a part of something like this."

Sandip Shrestha, Nepal

"We feel very respected. We haven’t played a game like this, and it means [a lot] to us. It’s a very high-level tournament which we are playing here, and it is (a) very good opportunity to play football here. It is (a) very good opportunity [for a] rising player."

Jackson Tong, South Sudan

"We have shared a lot of things like [players] talking to each other, learning different languages and, also, tasting different types of foods, which is also very good. And a lot of things.... I have learned to say, is it ¿Cómo estás? (How are you?) or something like that."

Dorin Vizitiu, Moldova

"It feels very good. It feels very good. I'm very proud of myself, with all the hard work, I managed to represent my country and be here.... When I was selected, I was very happy and proud of myself. Also, my family was very happy, and we celebrated at home."