Wrexham Academy Duo Leo Saxon And Oliver Jennings Named In Wales Squad for FIFA Under-15 World Cup

Wrexham AFC academy youngsters Leo Saxon and Oliver Jennings have been selected to represent Wales at the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan later this month.

The Football Association of Wales has included the two players in their squad, with the competition scheduled to run from October 24 to 30 in Baku.

Their selection marks another significant milestone for Wrexham’s academy, giving both youngsters the chance to gain international experience against opposition from around the world.

The tournament will feature 191 countries and more than 3,000 participants, with approximately 950 matches scheduled throughout the event.

Wales head coach Drew Sherman has selected Saxon and Jennings among 14 players for the historic tournament.

The competition is open to players born in 2011 and 2012, bringing together some of the youngest international footballers representing their respective nations.

Wales have been drawn into Group G alongside Portugal, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Burundi and Fiji.

Their opening fixture takes place against Bangladesh on Saturday, October 24, before a double-header against Indonesia and Burundi the following day. Wales will complete their opening group fixtures against Fiji and Portugal on Monday, October 26.

The tournament gives Saxon and Jennings a chance to test themselves against different styles while representing Wales on the international stage. Unlike traditional international youth tournaments, the inaugural Under-15 World Cup will use an eight-a-side format.

Matches will consist of two 20-minute halves, with rolling substitutions permitted throughout.

The smaller playing areas and reduced team sizes have been introduced to increase player involvement, touches on the ball and decision-making opportunities.

Following the opening group stage, participating nations will be divided into six performance tiers based on their results.

Matches in the second phase will take place between October 28 and 30, with the winners of Tier A crowned champions. Most matches will be played at the Hovsam Competition Complex, while the final stages will take place at Baku’s Crystal Hall. Supporters can follow the tournament on FIFA+, with Wales also providing updates across its official channels.

The international recognition comes as Wrexham continue developing their youth programme and strengthening the pathway between academy and senior football.

Phil Parkinson recently highlighted the importance of monitoring academy performances after Sammy Chesworth earned a place among the first-team substitutes against Derby County.

Chesworth’s involvement followed two goals for Wrexham Under-21s against Preston North End, demonstrating the opportunities available to players progressing through the club’s youth structure.

Although Saxon and Jennings remain at an earlier stage of their development, their international selection provides valuable experience as they continue progressing through the academy.