Meet Emile Witbooi: South Africa’s showstopper making headlines at the U17 World Cup in Qatar
South Africa’s teenage livewire Emile Witbooi is making the U17 World Cup in Qatar his stage.
Two games, two goals and a bag full of tricks have thrust the Bafana U17 No10 into the global spotlight at the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar.
His fearless flair has turned the Bafana U17 No10 into one of Africa’s must-watch talents for the future.
This follows his exploits at the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations played in Morocco in March.
In a rapid-fire sit-down for FIFA.com at the ongoing U17 World Cup in Qatar, the playmaker opens up on his football idols (yes, Messi), the modern stars shaping his game (hello, Musiala), the moments that made him, and the World Cup dream driving his surge.
Who is your football hero?
Messi, for sure. I love him because he's done things that you've never seen before. He's done crazy things with the ball! In my eyes, he’s the best.
Who inspired your love for football?
My dad.
Favourite hobby?
I like to play on the PlayStation.
Favourite sportsperson outside of football?
Ah, I don’t think I have one! I'm just thinking about football. It's football, football, football!
As well as Lionel Messi, what players in today's game do you look up to?
Took the scenic route 🇿🇦#U17WC pic.twitter.com/fSU3ok3pNZ
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 3, 2025
In Europe, I watch a lot of Jamal Musiala. He's a similar player as me, you know. I like how he plays when he's close to the box, it’s crazy!
Favourite food?
I'm not a huge eater, but I like pizza a lot.
How do you think your team-mates would describe you?
I think they'd say I was funny. I'm a people person. I like to be around people.
What does representing your country at the Under-17 World Cup mean to you?
It means the world to me, for sure. Growing up, coming out of the dusty streets of Kimberley to play at this level, it shows the people back home that nothing is impossible.