India U17 Women's Team Kicks Off AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers Against Iraq

The India U17 women's football team is gearing up to kick off their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers against Iraq. With a strong desire to qualify for consecutive tournaments, the team is building on their historic performance from the last edition. Head coach Joakim Alexandersson emphasizes the importance of teamwork and preparation as they face a disciplined Iraqi side. This match marks a significant step for the Young Tigresses as they aim to compete against Asia's best teams once again.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 6, 2026, 00:19 IST

India U17 Women's Team Prepares for AFC Qualifiers

The India U17 women's football team is set to launch their campaign in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers on Monday, facing Iraq in their first Group E match at the MP Selayang Stadium in Selayang, Malaysia.

With aspirations for a strong start, India aims to qualify for consecutive AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cups for the first time, as highlighted by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

After making history by reaching the knockout stage in the previous AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026, the Young Tigresses are eager to build on that achievement. Their journey in China ended with a 0-3 loss to the hosts in the quarter-finals, marking the best finish for India in this tournament.

Returning with 11 players from the last squad, the Young Tigresses have been training for the Qualifiers since July in Bengaluru. They then traveled to Tashkent, where they played two closed-door friendlies against Uzbekistan, both resulting in goalless draws.

Upon returning to India, they continued their preparations in Goa, where they faced the Philippines in two friendlies, experiencing a 2-4 defeat followed by a 2-0 victory.

Head coach Joakim Alexandersson believes that the extensive preparation has been beneficial in developing the team and establishing clear strategies for both offensive and defensive play as they head into the Qualifiers.

“We began with trials for the first three weeks, gradually building the team. Now, everyone understands our attacking strategy and defensive organization. Recently, we have focused on enhancing technical skills and play speed,” he stated.

The lengthy preparation period has also fostered a strong sense of unity among the players.

“We have emphasized the importance of communication, hard work, and mutual support throughout this process,” he added.

Regarding their first opponents, Iraq, Alexandersson noted the challenge of limited footage for analysis. He anticipates a disciplined team that may attempt to counter-attack.

“I don’t have much information about this Iraqi team due to the lack of match footage. However, previous Iraqi squads have typically played compactly and defensively, looking to capitalize on counter-attacks,” he explained.

Having experienced last year’s remarkable campaign, the Young Tigresses are determined to secure another chance to compete at the continental level.

“Qualifying again would be significant for us, as it would allow the players to compete against Asia's best teams, providing invaluable experience for their future careers. It would also enhance the chances for future U17 teams to qualify in the coming years,” Alexandersson concluded.