Ferran Torres' Journey to World Cup Glory Began in India

Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, securing Spain's second World Cup title. But few know that his journey to this moment began in India, where he played in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

What happened in India?

Ferran Torres was just 17 years old when he arrived in India to play in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. He was part of the Spanish team that competed in the tournament, which was held in venues like Kochi and Kolkata. Torres played a crucial role in the team, scoring two goals and providing two assists throughout the tournament.

Why it matters for Ferran Torres

The experience in India was a significant step in Torres' development as a player. He was part of a young team that was competing against some of the best players in the world. The tournament provided him with valuable experience and exposure, which helped him grow as a player.

What comes next?

Fast forward to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Torres scored the winning goal in the final against Argentina. His finish secured a 1-0 victory and Spain's second World Cup title. This historic goal made him the second Spanish player to score the winning goal in a FIFA World Cup final, after Andrés Iniesta's famous strike against the Netherlands in 2010.

Torres' journey to this moment was not an easy one. He had to work hard to develop his skills and gain experience at the highest level. But the experience in India played a significant role in shaping his career and preparing him for the big stage.

Another Spain star also has an India link

Torres was not the only member of Spain's World Cup-winning squad with memories of India. Defender Eric Garcia also represented Spain at the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup before progressing through the national setup. He came off the bench in the final against Argentina to help Spain see out the victory.

The pair first shared an international dressing room during that tournament in India, making the country's role in their football journey a memorable one.

India played a small part in a big football story

The FIFA U-17 World Cup introduced Indian supporters to several young players who later became established names in European football. For Torres, the road to lifting the biggest trophy in world football included an early stop in India. Years later, the same teenager who impressed crowds in Kochi and Kolkata returned to write his name into Spain's football history.