Hosts face Spanish test

Traditional youth power
Hosts France have been drawn in Group A alongside Spain, a traditional youth football power, as well as surprise qualifiers Northern Ireland and dark horses Turkey. The French will open their campaign against the Northern Irish, who are appearing in the U17 finals for the first time, before facing the Spaniards in their second match.

Portugal-England rematch
Three of the four leading teams from last season's competition are in Group B. Reigning champions Portugal will come up against England, whom they beat on penalties in the semi-finals last year, in their second group game. Austria, who beat England in the third-place play-off last season, are also in the group along with Ukraine, who will start the section as outsiders.

Iberian repeat?
The top two countries in each group will advance to the semi-finals, meaning that if they win their respective sections there is a chance of Spain and Portugal meeting in the final as they did last season. However, France, England and Austria all have the experience and pedigree to upset the Iberians.

Swiss example
Furthermore, Ukraine, Turkey and Northern Ireland will be aware that two years ago Switzerland began the tournament as rank outsiders but went on to lift the title.

Platini at draw
The finals will be played in the centre region of France from 4-15 May. Today's draw was conducted by the chairman of UEFA's Youth and Amateur Football Committee, Jim Boyce, and French football legend Michel Platini.

UEFA European Under-17 Championship draw:

U17 schedule:

All kick-off times CET.
Matches in bold to be shown live on Eurosport.
* = television coverage delayed.