HOT: The number one opponent of Vietnam U17 at the World Cup wins Euro runner-up

Belgium U17 claimed the runner-up title at U17 Euro 2026, thereby turning into a significant adversary for Vietnam U17 in the 2026 U17 World Cup group stage.

The 2026 U17 Euro has concluded with developments that attracted special interest from Vietnamese fans. This is because Belgium U17, one of Vietnam U17's opponents in the group stage of the 2026 U17 World Cup, created a historic milestone by reaching the tournament's final for the first time. Earlier, the young Belgian team impressively defeated France U17 2-1 in the semifinals to earn a place in the championship match.

In the other semifinal, Italy U17 overcame Spain U17 after a tense penalty shootout following a draw in regular time. This result set up a remarkable final between Belgium U17 and Italy U17, where the Western European representative had the opportunity to become champion for the first time at Europe's top U17 competition.

However, Belgium U17's championship dream could not be realized. In the final, they held Italy U17 to a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes of regular time. Entering the penalty shootout, the young Italian players showed greater composure to secure victory, thereby claiming the U17 Euro 2026 title. Despite the defeat in the final, the runner-up position remains the best result in Belgium U17's history in the tournament.

For Vietnam U17, Belgium U17's journey at U17 Euro 2026 further highlights the formidable strength of this opponent. According to the 2026 U17 World Cup draw results, coach Cristiano Roland's team will successively face Mali U17, Belgium U17, and New Zealand U17 in the group stage. Among these, Belgium U17 is considered the biggest challenge due to their technical foundation, physicality, speed, and modern playing style that have been tested against top European teams.

Nevertheless, facing a team that just became the runner-up of U17 Europe is also a valuable opportunity for young Vietnamese players to gain experience against top global talents. Additionally, Belgium U17's performance at this year's tournament will provide crucial data for the Vietnam U17 coaching staff to analyze, thereby developing an appropriate strategy for the anticipated clash at the World Cup.