Mexico vs Portugal U17 World Cup 2025: Round of 16 Review

On 18 November 2025, Mexico’s U-17 men’s team faced Portugal U-17 in a high-stakes Round of 16 match at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. This knockout showdown was to define which side continues their push for youthful glory on the global stage given the impressive performances these sides have displayed so far.

Read about the Quarterfinals here :  Portugal vs Switzerland Quarter finals

Portugal dominate Mexico

Portugal ran rampant over Mexico, beating them 5–0 in Doha.

Portugal opened the scoring early with Rafael Quintas converting a penalty in the 15th minute. Things got bad for Mexico when José Navarro was sent off in the 33rd minute after elbowing a Portuguese player, leaving his team down to 10 men.

Just after halftime, Anísio Cabral doubled Portugal’s lead making things even harder for Mexico. In a devastating stretch late in the game, Portugal scored three goals in quick succession: Zeega (81′), Miguel Figueiredo (83′), and Yoan Pereira (85′) sealed the rout.

Mexico’s misery was compounded when their goalkeeper Santiago López was shown a red card in the 88th minute. The result ended Mexico’s run at the U17 World Cup, while Portugal advanced confidently to the quarter-finals.

Quarter Finals

Portugal will Face off against Switzerland in the Quarter finals on Friday November 21st.

Read about the Quarterfinals here : Portugal vs Switzerland Quarter finals

Road to the Round of 16

Mexico’s Journey to the Round of 16

• Earlier, during the group stages, they defeated Switzerland and Ivory Coast and lost their opening match to South Korea.

  
  

• In the Round of 32, Mexico pulled off a stunning upset: they eliminated Argentina via a penalty shootout (5–4) after a 2–2 draw. Their goalkeeper, Santiago López, turned into a hero—saving a crucial kick and then netting the winner himself.

  
  

• Despite a rocky start in some matches, Mexico’s resilience and clutch performance under pressure have kept them alive and dangerous in Qatar.

Portugal’s Route to the Round of 16

• Portugal arrives in the knockout phase after topping their group, showing dominance and cohesion as the reigning UEFA U-17 European Champions.

  
  

• Their youth squad is known for technical quality, sharp passing, and smart movement — traits that helped them navigate a tough group with ease. The scored 6 goals against both Morocco and New Caledonia.

  
  

• Portugal defeated Belgium 2-1 in the round of 32 to set up this round of 16 clash with Mexico