India's U17 Team Concludes AFC Asian Cup Journey with Loss to Uzbekistan
India's AFC U17 Asian Cup Campaign Ends
Photo: IANS
Jeddah, May 11: The Indian men's U17 football team faced a disappointing 0-3 defeat against Uzbekistan, the reigning champions, in their final Group D match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 held at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium.
This loss marked the end of India's campaign, leaving them once again short of achieving their goal of qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup through merit.
After suffering a heavy loss to Australia in their opening match, the Blue Colts needed a victory to keep their hopes alive. They adopted a defensive strategy against the dominant Uzbek side, which controlled possession and frequently challenged the Indian defense with swift attacks.
Despite the pressure, India managed to maintain a solid defensive structure for most of the first half. The backline was well-organized, and goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar made several crucial saves to thwart the defending champions.
However, the Indian defense was breached in the 32nd minute due to a critical error. Sarkar rushed out to intercept an Uzbek attack but fouled Laziz Abduraimov in the penalty area. The referee awarded a penalty, which Abduraimov converted with a precise low shot into the corner.
Just before halftime, Uzbekistan nearly increased their lead when Sukhrob Sadirzhonov hit the post with a left-footed shot in the 43rd minute.
India almost equalized in stoppage time of the first half when Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam sent a promising cross across the goal, but no Indian player could finish it off.
After the break, the Blue Colts displayed more attacking intent and came close to leveling the score in the 56th minute. Dallalmuon Gangte took a brilliant free-kick that hit the crossbar, and Heeranganba Seram was unable to convert the rebound from close range.
This missed chance proved to be pivotal. Uzbekistan continued to apply pressure, with Sarkar making several impressive saves against Sukhrob Sadirzhonov and Abubakir Rakhimov during a sustained attack.
In the 60th minute, Uzbekistan doubled their lead in unfortunate fashion when Wangkhem Denny Singh accidentally redirected Makhmud Muradov's corner into his own net.
Despite the setback, India fought on, but Uzbekistan maintained their dominance and sealed the match in the 78th minute. Akhrorbek Ravshanbekov capitalized on a blocked shot to score the final goal, securing a convincing victory for his team.
India U17 lineup: Rajrup Sarkar (Gk), Shubham Poonia (Abhishek Kumar, 35), Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Moosa Ashiq, Azlaan Shah (Yuvraj Kadam, 46), Raj Singh Wahengbam (Heeranganba Seram, 46), Dallalmuon Gangte (C), Lawmsangzuala, Indra Rana Magar, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam (Adil Alungal, 81), Wangkhem Denny Singh (Rahan Ahmed, 62)