Italy vs Burkina Faso U17 World Cup Quarter‑Final Preview
- Mr Football
- Nov 19, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 21, 2025
The Italians left it late but they eventually knocked out Burkina Faso out of the tournament through a tight 1-0 win. The solitary goal was scored in the 83rd minute through Thomas CAMPANIELLO.
Burkina Faso seemed to be the hungrier team with their 16 total attempts while Italy had 9 attempts. However, the shots on target were equal for bot teams with each side testing the keeper 5 times.
Loukman TAPSOBA was a real headache for the Italians and he managed to get 4 attempts on goal. However, in the end it was the Italians who made their shots count with the one goal that sends them to the Semi finals
Italy's semifinal fixture
This victory sets up a semi final clash between Italy and Austria who eliminated Japan in another quarterfinal. The match is scheduled to be played on the 24th of November 2025.
Background & Road to the Knockout stage
Italy U17
Italy booked their spot in the quarter-finals with a hard-fought 3‑2 win over Uzbekistan in the Round of 16. They had previously knocked out the Czech Republic after a 2-0 win. Their win against Burkina Faso means they are set to play in the semifinals.
Their path to this stage underlines their quality: technically sound, tactically well-organized, and composed in tight games.
Historically, Italy has a strong youth development system and pedigree in U‑17 competitions. Their recent success at youth European tournaments also gives them a solid foundation.
Burkina Faso U17
Burkina Faso punched above their weight to reach the quarter-finals. They advanced via a dramatic penalty shootout, beating Uganda 5–3 after a 1–1 draw. Their loss to Italy means they exit the tournament, but they will be proud of their performances.
Their tournament has been defined by grit, mental toughness, and a “giant-killer” mentality. this was seen in their narrow 1-0 win against Germany in the round of 32.
In the Round of 16, they showed composure under pressure, an attribute that could be crucial against a team like Italy.
Match Significance & Storylines
This was a classic David vs Goliath narrative: Italy, the European powerhouse, versus Burkina Faso, the determined African underdog.
For Burkina Faso, a win here would would have monumental as it would continue their fairytale run in this U‑17 World Cup.
For Italy, anything less than a confident performance and a win could have raised questions about their ability to convert talent into titles at youth level.
The match also underscored the growing competitiveness of African youth teams on the world stage.
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