Football
AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers: India U17 qualify for Asian Cup- Highlights
India U17 Women beat Uzbekistan to qualify for AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026.
AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers LIVE: India U17 Women vs Uzbekistan- Scores, updates (Photo credit: AIFF)
The India U17 women’s national team scripted history in Bishkek, defeating Uzbekistan 2–1 to qualify for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026 — their first qualification through the qualifiers route.
India showed character and composure after a tough start. Uzbekistan took the lead in the 38th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after a save from goalkeeper Munni. But the second half belonged entirely to India. Substitute Thandamoni Baskey sparked the comeback in the 55th minute with a powerful finish after a quick counterattack. Ten minutes later, Anushka Kumari produced a moment of brilliance, dribbling past the Uzbek defence before firing home to give India the lead.
The final minutes saw heavy pressure from Uzbekistan, but the Indian defence, marshalled by captain Julan Nongmaithem and Elizabed Lakra, stood firm to protect the advantage.
With this win, India top Group G with six points from two matches, securing their place in next year’s continental showpiece in China.
This achievement marks a remarkable milestone, as India’s U17, U20, and senior women’s teams have all now qualified for their respective AFC Asian Cups, a first in Indian football history.
Highlights:
Live Updates
- 17 Oct 2025 1:21 PM GMT
19’ | Big chance for India!
Pearl Fernandes (India number 9) delivers a dangerous cross into the box, forcing the Uzbekistan goalkeeper into a smart save. The rebound falls into a dangerous area, but unfortunately, no Indian player is able to get a touch as the opportunity goes begging.
Score remains: India 0–0 Uzbekistan
- 17 Oct 2025 1:12 PM GMT
10’ | Early exchanges!
Both teams are feeling each other out in the opening stages, probing for weaknesses and testing the opposition’s defensive setup. India and Uzbekistan are maintaining disciplined shapes, with midfield battles shaping the pace of the game.
Score remains: India 0–0 Uzbekistan
- 17 Oct 2025 1:03 PM GMT
Kick-off!
The game is underway at the Dolen Omurzakov Stadium! India, in their blue kit, are playing from right to left, while Uzbekistan start in their red and white colours. The Young Tigresses are looking to take control early as they chase a historic qualification for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
- 17 Oct 2025 12:52 PM GMT
Uzbekistan Starting XI:
Uzbekistan Starting XI:
Khalkulova Mariya (1), Sitora Nabieva (3), Mubina Bakhtiyorova (4), Mariya Dakhova (5), Kamila Kushatova (6), Mekhrangiz Khamidova (C) (7), Yodgorkhon Yusupova (9), Nargiza Mamatalieva (10), Shakhzoda Alikhonova (11), Mohina Akbarova (17), Shakhrizoda Khayrullaeva (20)
Substitutes:
Sanobar Shoimova (2), Sarvinozkhon Abdulazizova (8), Kamila Bakirova (12), Zaynab Toyirova (13), Nozima Nazarova (14), Charos Yuldasheva (15), Jazira Komekova (16), Ugiloy Shodieva (18), Dilnura Amanbaeva (19), Khusnora Abdusalimova (21), Khonzoda Kholboeva (22), Gulsanam Khasanova (23)
- 17 Oct 2025 12:41 PM GMT
Welcome to the live coverage of the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026 Qualifiers!
It’s a historic evening in the making — the Young Tigresses, led by captain Julan Nongmaithem, are just one point away from qualifying for the continental showpiece for the first time since 2005. After a hard-fought 2–1 victory over hosts Kyrgyz Republic in their opening match, India are determined to finish the job and book their ticket to China 2026.
