FIFA U-17 World Cup

Croatia opens with a draw against Senegal

04.11.2025.

Photo by: FIFA/Getty images

Croatia’s U-17 national team started their FIFA U-17 World Cup campaign in Qatar with a 0:0 draw against Senegal. Coach Marijan Budimir’s side dominated the first half but were unable to convert their chances into a lead.

Croatia created three clear opportunities: in the 17th minute, Slišković’s shot went over the bar; in the 38th minute, the Senegalese goalkeeper reached the ball before Kusanović; and in the 44th minute, Benkotić failed to properly finish after Patrik Horvat’s attempt. Earlier, in the 11th minute, Sonko’s header from a left-side cross hit the post.

The second half saw a more cautious game from both sides, and Croatia ultimately secured their first point. In the other Group C match, Costa Rica and the United Arab Emirates drew 1:1.

A Croatian Football Federation delegation attended the match, led by President Marijan Kustić, and included Vice President Nenad Horvatić, Technical Director for the A and U-21 Teams Stipe Pletikosa, Head Instructor Petar Krpan, and U-21 Coach Ivica Olić.

Croatia’s next match is scheduled for Thursday, 6 November at 16:15 CET against the United Arab Emirates.

Match Details

SENEGAL – CROATIA 0:0
Venue: Aspire Zone, Doha
Referee: Fernando Vejar (Chile)
Yellow Card: Ma. Cisse (Senegal)

SENEGAL: Gomis, Mbengue, T. Ndiaye, Ma. Cisse, Sy (46’ Dabo), Sonko (77’ Bousso), V. Mendy (Mo. Cisse), Ndour, Lo (77’ Camara), O. Ndiaye, E. Mendy

CROATIA: Grahovac, Kostelac, Jakirović, Kumar, Pajsar, Smiljanić, Kusanović (72’ Križić), N. Horvat (72’ Radoš), P. Horvat (90’ Burcar), Slišković (90’ Vojvodić), Benkotić (62’ Šivalec)

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