India Faces Defeat Against Lebanon in AFC U17 Qualifiers

In a crucial AFC U17 Asian Cup qualifier, India fell to Lebanon with a score of 0-2, marking their first defeat in the tournament. Despite the loss, India's hopes for qualification remain alive as they prepare to face group leaders IR Iran in a decisive match. The team must secure a victory to advance to the Asian Cup for the tenth time. The match saw Lebanon dominate early, scoring twice in the first half, while India struggled to find their rhythm. With tensions high, India's Thonggoumang Touthang received a red card, adding to their challenges. Will India bounce back in their next encounter? Read on for more details.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 29, 2025, 08:27 IST

India's Struggles in AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], November 29: In a challenging match, India suffered a 0-2 defeat to a well-organized Lebanon team during their crucial Group D encounter in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers at the EKA Arena, as reported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

Despite this setback marking their first loss in the qualifiers, coach Bibiano Fernandes' squad remains in contention for qualification. They are set to face group leaders IR Iran in a must-win match on Sunday, where only a victory will ensure their spot in the AFC U17 Asian Cup for the tenth time.

Earlier, IR Iran secured a 3-1 victory over Palestine, accumulating seven points from three matches. Lebanon, with six points, has completed all four of their games and is out of the qualification race. India currently holds four points and sits in third place, but a win against IR Iran could elevate them to the top based on a superior head-to-head record. Palestine and Chinese Taipei have been eliminated after failing to secure any wins in three matches, leaving only India and IR Iran vying for the single qualification spot on the final matchday.

In the match against India, Lebanon struck twice in the first half, with goals from Antoine Assaf in the 26th minute and Paul Maakaroun in the 38th minute. India ended the match with ten players after Thonggoumang Touthang received a red card during stoppage time.

Entering the match with confidence following a 3-1 win over Chinese Taipei, India struggled to maintain control as Lebanon pressed aggressively, exploiting weaknesses in India's formation. The first goal came in the 26th minute due to a defensive lapse, allowing Anthony Chahine to assist Antoine Assaf, who scored with a brilliant left-footed shot into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar with no chance.

India nearly equalized shortly after, with Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam making a strong run, but his shot was expertly saved by Lebanon's goalkeeper Jason Finianos.

Lebanon continued to control the game and extended their lead in the 38th minute when Abbas Zreik set up Paul Maakaroun, whose shot deflected off Shubham Poonia, wrong-footing Sarkar and finding the net.

Facing a 0-2 deficit, India found it difficult to mount a comeback in the second half. Although they showed more determination, their efforts were thwarted by Lebanon's disciplined defense, leading to several missed opportunities. The match ended on a disappointing note for India as Touthang was sent off for a second yellow card in stoppage time.