Yahoo Sports 2024 U-17 World Cup: 5 young superstars to mark for the future
North Korea recently dethroned Spain in a dramatic end to the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. After a thrilling 1-1 draw, the final went to penalties and it was the East Asian side who triumphed. North Korea clinched their third U17 World Cup to become the most successful country at this level of the tournament.
The FIFA U-17 level is known to give birth to rising stars. From Dzsenifer Marozsán in 2008, to Uchenna Kanu of 2014, Deyna Castellanos of 2016, Clàudia Pina of 2018, and many other superstars.
This year once again showcased some of the world’s biggest young talents. We’ve spotlighted just a handful of the rising stars who you should watch out for — check out the list below.
Pau Comendador (Spain)
The Spanish captain took the bull by the horns and marshalled her team to their third consecutive final. Quick with her feet and clinical with her strikes, the Real Madrid starlet imprinted her name in the tournament. Pau Comendador scored five goals in six matches, and won the Silver Ball and Golden Boot awards during the process.
We are certain we will be seeing her again at the U-20 tournament, and we can’t wait to follow her trajectory.
Shakirat Moshood (Nigeria)
The winner of the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament, midfielder Shakirat Moshood is known for her audacious strikes from any part of the field. However, she does more than shooting. She has the ability to dictate the tempo of the match with her dangerous left foot, while picking unpredictable passes for her teammates.
There is a lot Moshood can add to her game, and her progress will be an exciting journey to keep track of for fans and mutuals alike.
Kennedy Fuller (USA)
Three assists, four goals, and five different positions in six matches is all you need to know about young American Kennedy Fuller.
While the attention was on Alex Morgan’s proposed successor, Mel Barcenas, it was Fuller who shouldered the responsibility of her team. From shielding her defence as a defensive midfielder to halting the opponent’s attack centrally, her ability to play in different positions was an asset in the hands of their coach.
If there is any sign you need to know Fuller is going to become a superstar, then her five-star performance in the bronze medal match is the evidence to hold on to.
Lola Brown (England)
The Young Lionesses starlet has been a standout performer with her technical quality, composure and leadership. Lola Brown played a critical role in England’s journey to the semi-finals. She showed poise under pressure and scored in key moments, including her penalty in England’s opening win over Kenya, and her flawless shootout execution against Japan in the quarter-finals.
Brown’s talents and self-confidence will certainly help her in achieving whatever she desires.
Jon Il-chong (North Korea)
Jon Il-chong won the U-17 Women’s World Cup Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. Her performances were pivotal in her team’s successful campaign, which culminated in lifting the cup once again.
Her technical skill, ability to read the game, and decisive contributions in critical moments set her apart as a leader on the pitch. Known for her versatility, Jon excelled in both midfield and attacking roles, consistently impacting matches with her creativity and vision. Her standout moments included her involvement in key goals during Korea DPR’s path to victory. She played a crucial role in building attacking plays and maintaining control in midfield, showcasing maturity beyond her years.
Of course, there are other young talents to celebrate, including Mel Bercenas, Peace Effiong, Micayla Johnson, and Celia Segura, but those spotlighted have grabbed our attention and we can’t wait to see how their future unfolds.
