Doha, Nov 28 (V7N) – Two decades after Cristiano Ronaldo first shone on the U-17 World Cup stage, another Portuguese generation has risen to global prominence at the same age-level tournament. Portugal secured the U-17 World Cup title in Qatar by defeating Austria 1–0 in the final, with the decisive goal scored by the tournament standout Anísio Cabral.

The final, held at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, featured an electric atmosphere. From the opening whistle, both teams displayed high-paced action and fierce competition. Within the first 15 minutes, Duarte Cunha’s goal was disallowed by the referee due to a foul on Hofmann, a decision upheld by VAR. Austria immediately counterattacked, but shots by Mazár and Romário Cunha were expertly saved by Portuguese goalkeeper Deshisku.

Portugal grew increasingly dominant under pressure. A swift run and dribble by Cunha on the right flank left the Austrian defense scrambling. In the 30th minute, a precise exchange of passes between Cunha and Mateus Mide allowed Cabral to find space at the far post and execute a perfect finish—the only goal of the match. After a brief VAR review, the goal was confirmed. Cabral’s strike marked his seventh goal of the tournament.

Austria made a late push before halftime, with a long-range attempt by Weinhandl going over the crossbar. In the second half, they controlled possession and tested goalkeeper Romário Cunha with several long-range efforts from Deshisku, Josepović, Marković, and Mazár. Substitute Frauser’s shot even struck the post, representing Austria’s closest chance to equalize.

Despite Austria’s pressure, Portugal maintained their lead until the final whistle, securing the victory. The young Portuguese squad, including Furtado, Quintas, Cunha, Mide, and Cabral, has already been hailed as Portugal’s “new golden generation.”

In the third-place match, Italy overcame Brazil 4–2 on penalties after the match ended goalless in regular time. Brazil played most of the game with ten men following a red card. Italy’s goalkeeper Langoni made crucial saves, and Barala’s late efforts secured the bronze for the tournament favorites.

Portugal’s triumph marks their second major success at youth level, following their Euro U-17 title, and signals the rise of a promising generation of Portuguese talent.

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