India's U17 Women Make History with Back-to-Back Asian Cup Qualification
India’s U17 women’s football team has etched its name in history once again by securing a spot in their second consecutive Women’s Asian Cup. This remarkable achievement marks them as the first-ever Indian side to qualify for back-to-back Asian Cups in any age category, including the senior level. The Young Tigresses showcased their dominance in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, culminating in a commanding 4-0 victory over Malaysia in their final Group E match held in Selayang, Malaysia.
Under the guidance of coach Joakim Alexandersson, the Young Tigresses delivered an impressive performance at the MP Selayang Stadium, sealing their place in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027. Redima Devi Chingkhamayum opened the scoring in the first half, followed by goals from Pritika Barman, Anushka Kumari, and substitute Nidhi, who completed the rout after the break. This victory capped off a perfect qualifying campaign for India, who finished with nine points from three matches, scoring an astonishing 20 goals and not conceding a single one.
The Indian team began their campaign with a staggering 14-0 demolition of Iraq, followed by a 2-0 victory over Syria. Malaysia, finishing second in Group E with six points, was unable to match India’s relentless attacking prowess. The Young Tigresses maintained their attacking intent throughout the match against Malaysia, despite challenging weather conditions that left the pitch slushy and difficult to navigate.
India's attacking strategy unfolds against Malaysia
India dominated possession and consistently threatened the Malaysian goal, with the midfield providing a steady supply of through balls. Wide players effectively stretched the opposition defense, creating numerous opportunities. Redima Devi Chingkhamayum’s powerful strike in the 29th minute broke the deadlock, giving India a deserved lead. The Young Tigresses continued to press for more goals, with Anushka coming close to scoring before the interval.
The View from the Cheap Seats
After the break, India maintained their momentum, with Pritika doubling the lead after a well-placed assist from Anushka. Anushka then added a third goal, showcasing her scoring prowess with a long-range effort that left the Malaysian goalkeeper with little chance. Despite a few late attempts from Malaysia, India’s defense, led by goalkeeper Munni and center-backs Julan Nongmaithem and Abhista Basnett, ensured a clean sheet.
The final goal came from Nidhi, who scored her first-ever international goal in a memorable fashion, weaving past three defenders and rounding the goalkeeper to finish from close range. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Indian players and support staff, marking a landmark achievement for Indian women’s football. With this historic qualification, the Young Tigresses head to China 2027 with their confidence soaring after three commanding performances in the qualifiers.
