Poland is preparing to host its first FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, with the 24-team tournament beginning against the backdrop of an ongoing dispute between FIFA and UEFA.
The tournament marks another major FIFA event since President Gianni Infantino dropped plans to bring private investment into the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project.
Six European nations — England, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and the host country Poland — are among the 24 teams competing for the title.
European boycott threatened tournament participation
European participation had been thrown into uncertainty after UEFA said its boycott of FIFA competitions remained in place despite Infantino apologising and confirming in a letter that the FFE plans had been withdrawn.
UEFA had demanded further assurances from FIFA before reconsidering its position.
The European governing body ended the boycott last week after saying FIFA had provided additional guarantees. However, UEFA officials have not publicly detailed the precise terms of those assurances.
UEFA continues legal challenge over FFE
Despite allowing its teams to participate in the tournament, UEFA has continued its challenge through the US courts.
The confederation has sought access to documents relating to the FIFA Forward Enterprise, saying the material could help it assess a potential criminal complaint against Infantino in Switzerland.
The legal action adds another layer to the tension between FIFA and European football authorities as the women’s youth tournament gets underway.
Poland, Benin and Tanzania make tournament debuts
Poland will not be the only nation making its tournament debut on the opening day.
Benin will face Mexico, while Tanzania will meet Brazil in another first appearance at the competition.
Brazil will be looking to build momentum with next year’s Women’s World Cup approaching on home soil, making a strong run in Poland an important part of their preparations and development.
England will also begin their campaign against Canada in the day’s fourth fixture.
North Korea begin title defence
North Korea enter the competition as defending champions, setting up another test for a side that has established itself as a major force in women’s youth football.
The tournament is scheduled to conclude with the final on September 27.
One question surrounding the closing stages is whether FIFA president Gianni Infantino will attend the final, with his presence yet to be confirmed.
For now, attention turns to the football, with 24 teams beginning their pursuit of the title in Poland.