India U-17 Beat Lebanon To Boost Asian Cup Quarterfinal Prospects
India U-17 defeat Lebanon to boost quarterfinal hopes.
The Indian U-17 women’s football team delivered a dominant performance at the AFC Under-17 Women’s Asian Cup, defeating Lebanon 4-0 in their final Group B match at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Friday, significantly boosting their chances of reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in over two decades.The victory marked a crucial turnaround for the side, as India secured their first win in the tournament since 2005. The result has placed the team in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage as one of the two best third-placed teams, keeping their historic campaign alive.
India’s attacking display was led by Pritika Barman, who starred with a brace and played a decisive role in breaking down the Lebanese defence. Her goals set the tone for a confident and aggressive performance from the Young Tigresses throughout the match.The scoring was further strengthened by contributions from Alva Devi Senjam and Joya, both of whom found the back of the net to complete a comprehensive team effort. The defensive unit also maintained a clean sheet, ensuring India finished the match with a comfortable margin.
The emphatic win has significantly improved India’s standing in Group B, with the team now in a favourable position to qualify for the quarterfinals. If confirmed, it would mark the first time in 21 years that India’s U-17 women’s team has progressed to the knockout stage of the continental competition.Tournament observers have noted that India’s improved coordination, sharper finishing, and disciplined defensive structure were key factors in the victory.
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The result has injected fresh optimism into the squad, which had struggled for consistency earlier in the tournament.With the group stage now concluded, India will be closely watching results from other groups to determine whether they secure a place among the best third-placed teams and continue their campaign in the knockout rounds of the championship.
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