Zambia and Barbados secure titles at FIFA U-15 World Cup

Zambia’s Under-15 national team won the Tier B title at the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan, after defeating Portugal 5-2. Maxen Msimuko scored a hat-trick during the match, with additional goals from Benson and Thomson.

In the Tier F consolation final, Barbados defeated Suriname 4-2 to secure their prize. Following an initial penalty shootout loss to Grenada, Barbados went on an unbeaten run, recording victories against the US Virgin Islands, Bhutan, and Papua New Guinea.

The tournament in Baku featured nearly 3,000 players from 189 national teams. It served as a platform for international youth development, involving 554 players from 52 FIFA Talent Academies.