Navi Mumbai, July 20: Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph has revived memories of the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017, when newly crowned world champions Ferran Torres and Eric García displayed their talent at D Y Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
Nine years before lifting football’s biggest prize, the duo featured in Spain’s impressive U-17 World Cup campaign in India. One of the tournament’s defining moments came on October 25, 2017, when Spain defeated Mali 3-1 in the semi-final at D Y Patil Stadium to book a place in the final.
Torres, then regarded as one of Spain’s brightest young forwards, scored Spain’s third goal with a well-timed header in the 71st minute, while García produced a composed defensive display to help his side secure victory.
Although Spain finished runners-up in the 2017 U-17 World Cup, the tournament proved to be an important stepping stone for several players, including Torres and García.
The pair have now completed a remarkable journey after helping Spain win the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final. Torres scored the match-winning goal in the 106th minute, while García made a crucial defensive contribution after coming on during extra time.
Spain’s World Cup success holds a special significance for Indian football fans, as two of its champions had once showcased their potential on Indian soil. Their journey from Navi Mumbai to football’s biggest stage highlights the lasting legacy of youth tournaments and reinforces India’s growing place on the global football map.
