BREAKING: Vietnam U17's top rival at the World Cup reaches Euro final

Belgium U17, which shares a group with Vietnam U17 at the 2026 World Cup, beat France to secure a spot in the U17 Euro championship match.

Just like last year, Belgium U17 faced France again in the semifinals of the U17 European Championship. After topping their group, the young Belgian players sought revenge for the 2008 generation, who were eliminated by France at the same stage last year.

Although quickly pressured by France U17, the Belgian players withstood the early attacks, including several dangerous crosses that went past Seghers. However, it was Belgium who took the lead in the 25th minute. From Driessen's assist, Anderlecht's Onia Seke cleverly bypassed the French defense to fire a left-footed shot into the net.

Trailing, France U17 maintained possession, while Belgium defended solidly, content to absorb pressure and rely on counterattacks. An effective tactic, as right after the second half began, a long clearance by Seghers caught the French defense off guard, creating a perfect chance for Benktib, who received the ball in space and delicately lobbed it over goalkeeper Decrenisse, making it 2-0.

Pushed into a corner, France applied strong pressure. Initially, the Belgian defenders held firm, but Gadou shone to pull one back for France U17, making it 1-2 with 25 minutes remaining. The final minutes were extremely tense for Belgium, but Seghers became a solid wall, making four crucial saves in the closing stages.

Winning 2-1 overall against France U17, Belgium U17 earned a place in the 2026 U17 Euro final and will face the winner of the other semifinal between Italy U17 and Spain U17. Boasting a quality squad and excellent form, Belgium U17 will be an extremely difficult opponent for Vietnam U17 to face at the 2026 U17 World Cup.

Belgium U17 is currently regarded as one of the most formidable teams at the 2026 U17 World Cup, following their impressive performance at the U17 European Championship in Estonia. Belgium U17 plays a modern style, possesses abundant physical stamina, and has consistent technical quality across all three lines. Their standout strength lies in a defense with superior physique, which will pose a major headache for Vietnam U17.