Zinc Football Academy and Garhwal United FC Advance to AIFF U17 Women’s Youth League Semi-Finals

Quarter-Final Highlights

In Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, on July 24, Zinc Football Academy and Garhwal United FC secured their spots in the semi-finals of the AIFF U17 Women’s Youth League 2026-27 after intense quarter-final matches held at the RKM Football Academy.

Zinc FA triumphed over the local team, RKM Football Academy, with a score of 3-2 in the first quarter-final, while Garhwal United FC narrowly defeated DFA Raisen 1-0 in the second match, as reported by the All India Football Federation.

Zinc will face the winner of the upcoming match between Nita FA and Sethu FC, while Garhwal United awaits the victor of the clash between Kickstart FC and HOPS FC. The remaining quarter-finals are scheduled for July 25.

The semi-finals are set for July 27, with Zinc FA being the first team to qualify after their hard-fought victory over RKM FA.

Match Details

The match began with both teams battling through rainy conditions. Zinc took an early lead in the fifth minute when left-winger Dangi Mardi made a swift run down the flank, delivering a precise pass to captain Antara Dolui, who scored with a low shot into the far corner.

RKM responded vigorously, with captain Harshita Nag and Nirmla Potai creating several threats against the Zinc defense. In the 25th minute, RKM equalized through a well-placed free-kick by Naveena Mourya, which Harshita converted with a quick strike.

The first half ended with both teams tied at 1-1, but Zinc quickly regained the lead just six minutes into the second half when Antara set up Sakshi Patel for a goal.

Antara then scored her second goal in the 55th minute, extending Zinc's lead to 3-1. RKM fought back, with Mahima Mandavi scoring from a free-kick, but despite their efforts, they could not find the equalizer.

Garhwal United's Narrow Victory

In the second quarter-final, Garhwal United FC capitalized on a late opportunity to secure their place in the semi-finals. The match was characterized by a strong midfield battle, with both teams struggling to create clear chances.

Garhwal's effective left-side combination of Japleen Kaur and Sunaina led to the decisive moment in the 82nd minute. Sunaina's cross was mishandled by DFA Raisen's goalkeeper, allowing substitute Mala Kumari to score the only goal of the match.

Despite Garhwal's early chances, including a near miss from Sabarni Kumari, the first half ended without any goals. Raisen attempted to counter with sharp plays, but Garhwal's defense held firm, ensuring a clean sheet until the late winner.