History was made in the world of youth soccer on Sunday, March 22, 2026, as Puerto Rico secured its first-ever berth in a FIFA World Cup tournament, qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The historic achievement comes after a victory over their rivals, marking a monumental moment for the island nation’s football program.
The Puerto Rican U-17 women’s team clinched their spot with a strong performance, overcoming significant hurdles to reach the tournament. El Vocero de Puerto Rico and Telemundo Puerto Rico both reported on the team’s historic qualification, highlighting the significance of the moment for Puerto Rican football. This marks the first time Puerto Rico has qualified for a FIFA World Cup in any category.
Meanwhile, Haiti’s hopes of qualifying for the tournament were dashed due to visa issues that sidelined key players. The Haitian Times reported that the team was eliminated from contention as a result of these logistical challenges.
The United States also secured their place in the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a win over Puerto Rico, as reported by SoccerWire. This win solidifies their position as strong contenders in the upcoming tournament.
With Puerto Rico and the United States now qualified, anticipation is building for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, promising exciting competition and showcasing the talent of young female footballers from around the globe.