U17 showpiece takes shape

The identity of all the sides in the second qualifying round of the 2002/03 UEFA European Under-17 Championship is now known, with many intriguing battles in prospect.

Big names fall
The first qualifying round saw 22 countries from across Europe eliminated. Sweden, Republic of Ireland, Ukraine and Turkey were the biggest names to fall, while Azerbaijan, Northern Ireland, Wales and Albania provided pleasant surprises. Czech Republic and Belgium were the final sides to book their places in the second stage of what is one of UEFA’s flagship youth football events.

Second-round structure
The second qualifying round includes a total of 28 countries - including the six seeds who did not participate in the first round - divided into seven groups of four, battling for seven places at next summer’s finals. Hosts Portugal qualify automatically.

Competitive groups
All of the second-round groups look competitive but, with just the top side progressing, some look especially tough. France, beaten finalists in last season’s event and in the Under-18 event the year before that, will face youth specialists Spain in Group 1, as well as Bulgaria and Wales.

Tight groups
Powerhouses Italy and Germany will do battle in Group 7, alongside Belgium and surprise package Azerbaijan. Group 2, with Russia, Croatia, Norway and Denmark, also looks like being extremely tight. Holders Switzerland are in Group 5 with Hungary, Greece and Albania, while old rivals England and Scotland meet in Group 6, alongside the perennially accomplished Czech Republic and the rising Slovakia.

March deadline
All in all, the second round looks set to provide a competitive but fun and educative environment for young players across Europe. The second round games must be completed before the end of March 2003.