The UEFA Futsal Under-19 Championship, established in 2019, has now seen its first wave of champions ascend to the continental stage in the senior ranks. Jesús Gordillo, Ricardo Mayor, Antonio Pérez, and Adrián Rivera were instrumental in Spain’s recent triumph at the 2026 Futsal Euro, marking a continuation of a remarkable journey that began in youth competition.
Gordillo, Mayor, and Pérez were all part of the Spanish squad that claimed the inaugural Under-19 title in 2019, held in Riga, Latvia. Antonio Pérez, in particular, has enjoyed a stunning run of success. He scored in the 2019 final against Croatia (a 6-2 victory for Spain) and, seven years later, netted a hat-trick in the absolute European Championship final against Portugal in Ljubljana. Pérez was joint-top scorer in both the 2019 and 2026 tournaments and was named Player of the Tournament in the latter.
Gordillo’s achievements extend beyond national team success. He played a key role in Illes Balears Palma’s victories in the UEFA Futsal Champions League finals of both the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons, making him the only player to date to have won all three men’s futsal competitions currently organized by UEFA. This demonstrates a consistent level of excellence across club and international play.
Adrián Rivera likewise played a pivotal role in Spain’s youth success. In 2022, he scored the winning goal in a 6-2 extra-time victory over Portugal in the Under-19 final, played in Jaén. Notably, his opponents that day included Diogo Santos and Kutchy – players he would face again four years later in the 2026 Futsal Euro final.
The Portuguese team that reached the 2026 final also boasted a star in Lúcio Rocha, their captain and top scorer, who was also named Player of the Tournament. Portugal had previously claimed the Under-19 European Championship title in 2023, defeating Spain 6-2 in the final held in Poreč.
Croatia, featuring Nikola Čizmić, Jakov Hrstić, and Josip Jurlina – all members of the 2019 Under-19 runner-up squad – finished third at the 2026 Futsal Euro. Interestingly, they played their group stage matches at the Arena Riga, the same venue where they competed in the youth competition seven years prior, under the same head coach, Marinko Mavrović. The coaching connections ran deep, with Spain’s Albert Canillas and Portugal’s José Luís Mendes, who both led their Under-19 teams in previous finals, also serving on the senior national team coaching staffs in 2026.
The 2027 UEFA Futsal Under-19 Championship will be held at the Jekpe-Jek Hall in Astana, Kazakhstan, from September 26th to October 3rd, with qualifying rounds taking place earlier in the year. Portugal will aim to defend their title, having also revalidated their championship in 2025 in Chișinău.
This interconnectedness between the youth and senior levels highlights the importance of the UEFA Futsal Under-19 Championship as a breeding ground for talent and a pathway to success for the next generation of futsal stars. The success of players like Pérez, Gordillo, and Rivera demonstrates the long-term impact of this competition and its role in shaping the future of European futsal. For fans following the sport, it’s a clear indication that the talent pipeline is strong and that Spain and Portugal are poised to remain dominant forces in the years to reach.
The rise of these players isn’t just about individual skill; it’s a testament to the development programs in place within Spain and Portugal. The ability to transition seamlessly from the Under-19 level to the senior national team speaks volumes about the quality of coaching and the strategic approach to player development. It also underscores the growing professionalism and competitiveness of futsal across Europe.
Looking ahead, the 2027 Under-19 Championship in Astana will be a crucial event for identifying the next crop of potential stars. The competition will undoubtedly be fierce, with nations investing heavily in their youth programs to replicate the success seen with the current generation. The tournament will also provide a valuable platform for showcasing the talent and passion for futsal in Kazakhstan, a country increasingly embracing the sport.
The story of Spain’s futsal success is a compelling narrative of dedication, talent, and strategic investment. From the early triumphs at the Under-19 level to the recent victory at the European Championship, these players have consistently demonstrated their ability to perform on the biggest stage. Their journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring futsal players across Europe and beyond.
The next confirmed action for the senior Spanish national team will be the announcement of their squad for upcoming international friendlies, scheduled for November 2026. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and schedules through the official UEFA website: https://es.uefa.com/futsaleuro/. What are your thoughts on Spain’s dominance in futsal? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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