Korea Republic, Uganda, New Caledonia and Ecuador bring different U17 World Cup backgrounds to Group B in Qatar. FIFA's profiles identify their coaches, qualifying routes and players to watch.
Korea Republic and Uganda
Kim Hyunjun leads Korea Republic, who qualified as U17 Asian Cup quarter-finalists. Their eight previous appearances include quarter-final runs in 1987, 2009 and 2019.
FIFA highlights 17-year-old Nam Ian of Ulsan HD's youth system. Standing 1.88 metres tall, he was Korea Republic's youngest player at the previous tournament and scored the winner against Mexico in their opening match.
Uganda qualified through an African U17 play-off and are coached by Laryea Kingston. Their only previous World Cup appearance ended in the round of 16 in 2025.
Owen Mukisa scored in the decisive play-off against Ghana, which Uganda won on penalties. He also demonstrated his heading ability with a goal against Congo DR in the African group stage.
New Caledonia and Ecuador
New Caledonia qualified as runners-up at the 2025 OFC U16 Championship. Francis Watrone coaches a side whose three previous World Cups ended in the group stage in 2017, 2023 and 2025.
Goalkeeper and captain Sylvain Ipeze plays senior football for AS Lossi in Noumea. FIFA's assessment highlights his shot-stopping and command in the air.
Ecuador finished fourth in South American qualifying. Gonzalo Ferrea leads a team with six previous appearances and quarter-finals in 1995 and 2015. Independiente del Valle winger Edwin Quintero is FIFA's featured player.
The next assignment for all four teams is their Group B campaign at Qatar 2026.