FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 16 kicks off with Brazil-France heavyweight clash today

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By: Michael Brown

Brazil and France clash in a heavyweight Round of 16 matchup today at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. The match kicks off at 8:30 a.m. ET on Nov. 18, 2025. Brazil rolls in unbeaten after dominant group-stage wins. France bounced back with impressive shutout victories.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Kickoff: 8:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Aspire Zone
  • Brazil’s dominance: Scored 12 goals in group stage with wins over Honduras (7-0) and India (4-0)
  • France’s rebound: 2-0 shutout vs. Colombia after early loss to Uganda
  • Live coverage: FS2 on TV, streaming on FOXSports.com and FOX Sports App
  • Tournament format: Eight-team Round of 16 determines quarterfinalists on Nov. 20

What Happened in the Group Stage

Brazil dominated their group stage with explosive attacking play. They demolished Honduras 7-0, cruised past India 4-0, and drew 1-1 with Zambia. Head coach Dudu Pateluci’s squad showed their signature flair throughout. Players moved the ball with precision and scored from multiple positions.

France took a different path to Round of 16 qualification. They suffered a surprising early loss to Uganda, then recovered with back-to-back shutouts. A 2-0 victory over Colombia highlighted their defensive discipline. Head coach Lionel Rouxel built a foundation on protection while keeping clean sheets. Their tournament improved significantly after the initial setback.

“Brazil showed their powers of recovery to battle for more than 80 minutes a player down against Paraguay, before winning on penalties.”

FIFA.com, Tournament Coverage

Why This Match Matters for Both Squads

This Round of 16 encounter determines who advances to the quarterfinals on Nov. 20. Brazil aims to defend their championship status and maintain their scoring prowess. France seeks to prove their group-stage recovery wasn’t a fluke. Both teams represent talent-rich nations with winning pedigrees at youth tournaments.

The winner advances directly to the quarterfinals, while the loser’s tournament ends today. That elimination pressure creates intensity in every match. American soccer fans will recognize this high-stakes format from World Cup qualifying. Both squads contain potential future stars for their respective senior programs.

Head-to-Head: Key Players and Stats

Brazil boasts a deep roster with multiple goal-scoring threats. Players like attackers and midfielders have delivered consistently. France counters with disciplined defending anchored by goalkeeper Ilan Jourdren and defenders including Lucas Batbedat. Their midfield includes emerging talents like Kais Lesueur and Djibril Coulibaly.

Stat / Category Brazil U-17 France U-17
Group Stage Goals 12 goals scored 2-0 vs. Colombia
Record to Round 16 Unbeaten group play 2 shutouts in rebound
Tournament Venue Aspire Zone, Doha Aspire Zone, Doha
Tournament Dates Nov. 3–27, 2025 Nov. 3–27, 2025
Head Coach Dudu Pateluci Lionel Rouxel

Brazil’s attacking firepower and experience handling pressure give them an edge in knockout play. France’s defensive organization and goalkeeper strength provide resilience. The matchup pits explosive offense against compact defense. Tactical execution will determine which squad reaches the quarterfinals.

What To Watch For During the Match

  • Brazil’s penalty-kick poise: They won a shootout vs. Paraguay recently. Watch how they handle pressure.
  • France’s defensive adjustments: Can they contain Brazil’s multiple scoring threats?
  • Midfield control: Which team dominates possession in central areas?
  • Set-piece execution: Corner kicks and free kicks often decide knockout matches.
  • Turnover transitions: Quick counterattacks could produce breakthrough goals.

Can Brazil Extend Their Unbeaten Run Deep Into the Tournament?

Brazil comes in as favorites based on attacking dominance and group-stage results. They scored 12 goals in three matches, averaging 4 goals per game. Their confidence reached the knockout stage intact. However, knockout tournaments often reward teams with balanced play, not just goal-scoring.

France provides a stern test with their improved defensive form. They could pull off an upset with focused play and goalkeeper heroics. The Round of 16 is where tournament darlings sometimes stumble. Will Brazil’s magic continue, or does France’s resilience shine through today?

Kickoff Details and Streaming Info

The match airs on FS2 at 8:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Fans can stream it on FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App. FOX One offers a 7-day free trial for this tournament. The match is played at Aspire Zone Pitch 2 in Doha, Qatar. Winners advance to quarterfinals on Nov. 20. Quarter-final losers stay at the tournament for third-place play.

Sources

  • FOX Sports – Brazil vs France Match Preview and TV Information
  • FIFA.com – Round of 16 Preview and Tournament Coverage
  • ESPN – FIFA U-17 World Cup Live Scores and Standings

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