Randall Row believes Costa Rica's returning players can help the next U-17 generation compete more strongly at Qatar 2026. The coach who led the team at the 2025 World Cup discussed the value of that experience in an interview with FIFA.
Row is reflecting on his previous role rather than speaking as the current U-17 head coach. He has also helped Costa Rica secure qualification for the 2027 U-20 World Cup.
Lessons from the 2025 campaign
Costa Rica exited in the group stage last year, returning to the competition after an eight-year absence. Row had joined the federation only two months before qualifying.
He said the tournament offered valuable international exposure to players with few opportunities to face overseas opponents at club level. His reflections included a narrow 1-0 defeat by Senegal, a competitive meeting with the UAE and difficulties against Croatia's wide play.
Although progression proved beyond the team, Row felt the players had competed and gained experience that could support their development.
Five players return
Thiago Cordero, Fabricio Urbina, Adrian Espinoza, Brayan Calderon and Ethan Barley were selected as younger members of the 2025 squad. The five players born in 2009 are now preparing for another World Cup alongside a generation born in 2010.
Row sees potential in that blend of experience and technical ability, expressing hope for progression rather than predicting a result. He stressed building foundations across generations, sharing knowledge between coaches and allowing talented youngsters to develop alongside more accomplished players.