Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), October 18 (Daily Kiran): The Indian U-17 women’s football team made history on Friday by qualifying for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 — their first qualification in 20 years. India secured the berth with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan at the Dolon Omurzakov Stadium in Bishkek.
The match saw India make a remarkable comeback after conceding an early goal. Head coach Joakim Alexandersson’s tactical substitutions turned the game around when he brought in Thandamni Baske in the 40th minute to replace Bonifilia Shullai. Baske made an immediate impact, scoring the equalizer in the 55th minute. Just 11 minutes later, she provided a perfect assist to Anushka Kumari, who netted the winning goal for India in the 66th minute.
Earlier, Uzbekistan had taken the lead in the 38th minute through Shakhzoda Alikhonova. But the young Indian side showed excellent composure and control in the second half to seal the match — and their place in the continental championship.
This marks the first time India has qualified for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup on merit. The last appearance was in 2005, when the team gained direct entry before the qualification system was introduced.
With this achievement, India now has its senior women’s team, U-20 women’s team, and U-17 women’s team all set to compete in major continental tournaments, reflecting a new era of progress in women’s football in India.