Egypt Crashes Out of U-17 World Cup After Hefty Loss to Switzerland

Egypt's Under-17 football team crashed out of the World Cup after losing 3-1 to Switzerland in the round of 32. The match, played in Doha, Qatar, ended Egypt's campaign despite making it through as one of the best third-placed teams from the group stage.

Egypt had a tough route to this stage. They finished third in their group behind Venezuela and England, but managed to squeeze through to the knockout rounds. Switzerland, meanwhile, topped Group 6 with seven points after beating Mexico and Ivory Coast, plus drawing with South Korea.

The Swiss took control early. Nevio Scherrer opened the scoring in the 15th minute, giving his team the confidence they needed. Ethan Brüschins doubled the lead just before halftime in the 39th minute, putting Egypt in a difficult position.

Switzerland effectively sealed the game in the 58th minute when Gilles Stiel scored their third goal. Egypt managed a consolation goal through Anas Rashdi in stoppage time, but it was too little too late.

The result highlights the gap between Egypt's youth development and established football nations like Switzerland. Egypt's young players showed promise by reaching the knockout stage, but struggled against a more organized and clinical Swiss side.

Switzerland now advances to the round of 16, where they'll face either Ireland or Canada. Those two teams play their round of 32 match later today.

For Egypt, this tournament served as valuable experience for their young players. Many of these teenagers will likely progress through the country's youth system and could represent the senior national team in future competitions.