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Afghanistan U-15 World Cup qualification has been officially confirmed after the Afghanistan Football Federation announced the achievement on Tuesday. The milestone reflects ongoing work to strengthen youth football through structured development programs across the country.
The federation stated that Afghanistan U-15 World Cup qualification resulted from long-term planning and continuous investment in grassroots football. Officials said expanding youth competitions created a stronger pathway for talented players to progress into the national team.
According to the federation, under-14 competitions organized in different zones of Afghanistan played a key role. Those tournaments helped identify young players and prepare them for higher levels of competition. The federation credited this system with supporting Afghanistan U-15 World Cup qualification.
The federation also highlighted efforts by its leadership. It said President Mohammad Yousuf Kargar held discussions with FIFA officials while promoting youth football development in Afghanistan. Those meetings focused on expanding opportunities for young footballers through international cooperation.
The FIFA U-15 World Cup forms part of FIFA's global talent development program. The initiative aims to develop technical ability, increase international exposure, strengthen decision-making, and prepare future national team players. It also encourages consistent player development through organized competition.
The tournament will take place in Azerbaijan from October 22 to October 31, 2026. Under-15 national teams representing FIFA member associations will compete during the event. Only players born in 2011 and 2012 will be eligible to participate.
Tournament matches will follow an 8-versus-8 format. FIFA introduced this structure to increase ball involvement, improve individual skills, encourage quicker decisions, and provide greater learning opportunities during matches.
For Afghanistan, Afghanistan U-15 World Cup qualification provides a significant platform for young players to compete internationally. The tournament will also help increase the visibility of Afghan youth football. Federation officials believe Afghanistan U-15 World Cup qualification represents an important step in the continued development of the country's next generation of footballers.
