France hosted the 16 teams entered the competition during 25 May and 3 June 1987.

Spain unsuccessfully defended its title.

Italy won the final match against the Soviet Union but UEFA withdrew Italy's title, because they had played Riccardo Secci, inscribed with an irregular document.

[3] The top three countries qualified for the 1987 FIFA U-16 World Championship in Canada.

The following three teams from UEFA qualified for the 1987 FIFA U-16 World Championship.