Countdown begins to youth draw

Six European representatives
Europe's six representatives qualified for this year's event, which takes place in the United Arab Emirates from 25 March-16 April, by virtue of their performances at last year's UEFA European Under-19 Championship in Norway. They will join 18 other countries in the hat. The draw will divide the 24 participants into six first-stage groups, each comprising four teams.

Spain hope to regain crown
Reigning European Under-19 champions Spain were the last European side to lift the trophy back in 1999 when they beat Japan 4-0 in the final. The only other European side taking part in this year's tournament to have lifted the trophy is Germany, who triumphed as West Germany in the 1981 final against Qatar in Australia.

FIFA World Youth Championship participants