FIFA confirms Nigeria among 189 nations for inaugural U-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan

Nigeria are among 189 FIFA Member Associations confirmed for the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival, scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 24 to 29 October 2026.

The new competition is designed to promote youth football development and provide young players with international experience, with 78 of the participating Member Associations set to make their first appearance at a FIFA World Cup competition across all age groups and genders.

The boys’ tournament is open to players born in 2011 or 2012 and forms part of FIFA’s wider efforts to expand opportunities for young footballers across its 211 Member Associations.

According to FIFA, the inaugural edition will combine competitive football with educational activities, meetings with FIFA Legends and awareness campaigns, placing player development and enjoyment at the centre of the event.

FIFA Head of Youth Tournaments Roberto Grassi described the initiative as an ambitious project aimed at strengthening the global football community and giving young players opportunities to represent their countries on the international stage.

He also praised the collaboration with the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA), expressing confidence in the host nation’s preparations for the competition.

Unlike conventional knockout tournaments, the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival will ensure every team remains involved until the final day. The six-day programme will feature a three-day qualification phase followed by a three-day tournament across six tiers, with the Tier A winner crowned champion.

Matches will be played in an eight-a-side format, comprising two 20-minute halves. The rules will also include rolling substitutions, kick-ins and smaller pitches adapted to the needs of young players.

Most matches will take place at the Hovsan Competition Complex, while Baku Crystal Hall will host the opening ceremony and finals. All participating teams will be accommodated together in an Athletes’ Village.

The inaugural boys’ edition follows a decision by the FIFA Council in December 2025 to introduce U-15 festival-style tournaments for boys and girls, with participation open to all 211 Member Associations. The girls’ edition is scheduled for 2027, before annual boys’ and girls’ tournaments begin in 2028.

For Nigeria, participation offers an opportunity for young players to gain international exposure and experience a global football event at an early stage of their development.

The tournament also marks a significant expansion of FIFA’s youth football programme, with the format designed to increase participation, encourage learning and give emerging players more opportunities to compete internationally.

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