Agencies | Doha
Portugal capped a remarkable resurgence by defeating Austria 1-0 in the final to win the FIFA Under-17 World Cup at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan.
Benfica forward Anisio Cabral stayed narrowly onside to score the only goal of the match in the 32nd minute, converting a cut-back from Duarte Cunha. The strike took Cabral to seven goals for the tournament, one short of Austria forward Johannes Moser, who finished as the top scorer.
Portugal, who had endured a long absence from the tournament, came through a demanding knockout run, beating Belgium, Mexico, Switzerland and Brazil on the way to the final. Coached by Joao Santos, the side followed up its Under-17 European Championship triumph earlier this year with its first World Cup title at this age level.
Austria, appearing in their first Under-17 World Cup final, impressed throughout the knockout stage with wins over England, Japan and Italy.
Portugal midfielder Mateus Mide was named the Golden Ball winner after finishing the competition with four goals and two assists.
This was the 20th edition of the tournament, which FIFA has now shifted to an annual cycle instead of a biennial one. Qatar hosted this edition and will stage the next four as well.
Earlier in Doha, goalkeeper Alessandro Longoni saved two penalties as Italy defeated Brazil 4-2 in a shoot-out following a 0-0 draw in the third-place playoff.
