Cyprus national U-15 team participates in inaugural FIFA World Cup and Festival in Baku

The Cyprus national U-15 football team has arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, to compete in the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival 2026. The squad is currently undergoing daily training sessions ahead of the tournament’s commencement this coming Saturday. This global developmental event features participation from 191 national U-15 teams, comprising players born in 2011 or 2012.

The Cypriot delegation is led by coach Michalis Markou, assisted by Lambros Lambrou. The roster includes young talents representing various domestic clubs: Ephraim Kyriakou (AEK Larnaca), Andreas Zarvos (AEL Limassol), Georgios Hatzigeorgiou (Anorthosis Famagusta), Eirineos Kyriazis (Ayia Napa), Konstantinos Markidis (APOEL Nicosia), Panagiotis Achilleos (Apollon Limassol), Stavros Bambalioutas (Aris Limassol), Markos Psintridis (Ethnikos Assias), and Giannis (Nea Salamina Famagusta).

The FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival is designed as a developmental program aimed at providing young players with international competitive experience. Beyond the matches, the initiative seeks to offer participants professional exposure both on and off the field to support their long-term athletic development. The competition is expected to be a significant milestone for the young athletes as they integrate into the global football framework.