Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph has revived memories of the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017, where future champions Ferran Torres and Eric García impressed at Navi Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium. Nine years later, the duo played key roles in Spain's World Cup-winning campaign, highlighting India's connection to the early rise of football's newest world champions.
Mumbai: Spain’s triumph at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has revived memories of an unforgettable chapter at the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017, when two of the country’s newest world champions, Ferran Torres and Eric García, showcased their talent at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
Nine years before lifting football’s biggest trophy, Torres and García were part of Spain’s impressive campaign at the U-17 World Cup hosted by India. Spain played seven matches in the tournament, recovering from an opening group-stage defeat against Brazil to register five consecutive victories and reach the final.
A defining moment of that campaign came on Oct 25, 2017, when Spain faced Mali in the semi-final at DY Patil Stadium. Backed by an enthusiastic crowd in Navi Mumbai, the young Spanish side secured a commanding 3-1 victory and booked its place in the title clash.
The match also gave Indian football fans an early glimpse of two players who would eventually perform on the sport’s biggest stage.
-
This 20-Minute Chana Taco Recipe Packed With Protein Is Perfect For Kids
-
IND vs ZIM T20 Series: ‘Not India, both teams have equal chances’, big claim of Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza
-
Who is Abhishek Porel? Had once entered IPL in place of Rishabh Pant, now orders for arrest in rape case
-
Liverpool has ‘obvious’ gaps to address in transfer market, says Iraola
-
David Warner Drunk Driving Case: Former Australian Batter Pleads Guilty, Risks Losing BBL Captaincy And 9-Month Jail Term
