India maintained their chances of reaching the quarter-finals in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2026 with a decisive 4-0 win over Lebanon in their final Group B match at Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre Pitch 8 on May 8.
Pritika Barman led the Young Tigresses with two goals, while Alva Devi Senjam and Joya also scored, marking India’s first victory and goals in the tournament since 2005. This emphatic result positions India favourably to qualify for the quarter-finals as one of the tournament’s two best third-placed teams, according to a release from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
In light of this outcome, the Philippines require a 12-goal win against Chinese Taipei, while Chinese Taipei must secure a 13-goal victory to advance.
Understanding that only a win would keep their qualification hopes alive, India made one change from their previous match, with Anushka Kumari replacing Pearl Fernandes, and started strongly by taking the lead in the sixth minute.
Right-back Divyani Linda launched a long ball forward, which Pritika expertly controlled before evading Lebanon defender Joya Bou Assaf. The winger then struck a superb left-footed shot beyond goalkeeper Marie Joe Chebly, delivering an ideal start for India.
The early goal settled the Young Tigresses, who soon established control through confident passing and aggressive pressing in the attacking third. India nearly doubled their lead shortly after when Anushka Kumari’s effort was well saved by Marie. Pritika continued to challenge the Lebanese defence, narrowly missing a second goal in the 16th minute due to another save by the goalkeeper.
Lebanon struggled against India’s width and midfield pressure, which was maintained through swift transitions and strategic positioning.
The second goal arrived in the 35th minute when Redima Devi Chingkhamayum threaded a pass to Alva Devi Senjam at the edge of the box. Senjam then surged past Gianna Frangieh before calmly scoring, giving India a deserved 2-0 lead at half-time.
India resumed the second half with sustained attacking intensity, pinning Lebanon in their own half. The Young Tigresses controlled possession for extended periods and remained dangerous when advancing down the flanks.
Their dominance continued in the 72nd minute when substitute Joya showcased individual brilliance. Receiving the ball on the left wing, she displayed excellent close control, cut inside, bypassed two defenders, and curled a fine right-footed strike into the net to make the score 3-0.
India secured their outstanding performance five minutes from full-time as Pritika completed her brace. Advancing from the right wing, she entered the penalty area unchallenged and calmly finished past Marie, confirming the result.
The final whistle marked a historic night for the Young Tigresses, who achieved their first win in the competition in over two decades and are on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time in 21 years.
India U17 Women lineup: Munni (GK), Elizabed Lakra (C) (Alena Devi Sarangthem 85′), Divyani Linda, Thandamoni Baskey (Bonifilia Shullai 75′), Julan Nongmaithem (Joya 58′), Anushka Kumari (Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam 75′), Ritu Badaik, Pritika Barman, Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi Senjam (Pearl Fernandes 75′).