Baku:Cyprus Cyprus will participate in the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026, set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from October 24 to October 30.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) announced that the event will include 191 national youth teams from around the globe. This initiative by FIFA is designed to provide all member associations, including those that seldom qualify for international competitions, a chance to compete on the global stage.

The tournament is open to players born in 2011 or 2012, with each team comprising 14 players. Matches will feature an 8-a-side format instead of the conventional 11-a-side, with games lasting 40 minutes, split into two 20-minute halves, on a smaller pitch.

Cyprus has been placed in Group AD and will compete against Nigeria, Gambia, Jordan, Pakistan, and South Sudan in the initial phase. The Cypriot team will be coached by U-16 coach Michalis Markou.

The match against Jordan is scheduled for October 24, followed by games against Pakistan and Gambia on October 25, and South Sudan and Nigeria on October 26. After the qualifying phase, all participating teams will advance to the second phase, continuing to play until the event concludes, irrespective of their standings.