Doha, Qatar – Brazilian forward Dell, dubbed the “Haaland of the Sertao,” propelled his team to the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 with a dramatic late goal against Morocco. The 17-year-old striker scored twice in the 2-1 victory, solidifying Brazil’s ambition to win the tournament and showcasing his composure under pressure. This win sets the stage for a highly anticipated semi-final clash against Portugal.
The match, played at the Aspire Zone, saw a vibrant atmosphere fueled by passionate Moroccan supporters. However, Dell’s clinical finishing proved decisive, securing Brazil’s place in the final four. His performance has quickly made him a standout player in the competition, drawing comparisons to Erling Haaland.
Dell Leads Brazil to U-17 World Cup Semi-Finals
Dell opened the scoring in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from teammate Ruan Pablo. The connection between the two Bahia players, honed through years of playing together, was evident on the pitch. Morocco responded before halftime, creating a tense second half where a penalty shootout loomed.
However, Dell intervened in the 95th minute, displaying remarkable skill to evade the goalkeeper and score the winning goal. He described the moment as “magical,” attributing his calm demeanor to faith and preparation. The striker’s ability to perform under pressure is a key asset for the Brazilian squad.
A Challenging Match Against a Vocal Opponent
The Brazilian team faced a significant challenge in navigating the intense atmosphere created by the Moroccan fans. Dell noted the crowd was “zuadento,” a northeastern Brazilian term for loud and buzzing, requiring heightened concentration to communicate effectively. Clear communication, he emphasized, was crucial to overcoming the external distractions.
Dell credits his success to a combination of hard work, ambition, and a genuine enjoyment of the game. This positive mindset, combined with his technical ability, has made him a focal point of the Brazilian attack. His composure and finishing ability are reminiscent of established stars, fueling the “Haaland of the Sertao” nickname.
Brazil’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by consistent performances and a clear objective: to win the championship. According to Dell, the team arrived in Qatar with a singular focus, dismissing any notion of treating the tournament as merely a learning experience. This unwavering determination is a testament to the team’s preparation and coaching staff.
The upcoming semi-final against Portugal on November 27th at Khalifa International Stadium is anticipated to be a closely contested match. Dell likened the fixture to a derby, suggesting a fierce rivalry and high stakes. Portugal has also demonstrated strong form throughout the tournament, presenting a formidable challenge for Brazil.
Meanwhile, the other semi-final will pit Austria against Italy. Both teams have exceeded expectations, reaching the final four through a combination of tactical discipline and individual brilliance. The results of these matches will determine the finalists for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
The tournament is scheduled to conclude with the final match on December 1st. While Brazil remains a strong contender, the path to the championship will require continued focus and resilience. The performance of key players like Dell, along with the team’s ability to adapt to different opponents, will be critical in determining their ultimate success. The next few days will be crucial as teams prepare for the semi-finals and the opportunity to lift the coveted trophy.
FIFA provides ongoing coverage of the U-17 World Cup. The Peninsula Qatar also offers local updates on the tournament.
