In a landmark achievement for Indian women’s football, the Young Tigresses clinched qualification for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup for the first time in two decades, defeating Myanmar 1-0 in their final Group D qualifying match at Thuwunna Stadium on Sunday. This victory propels India to the 2026 tournament in Thailand, marking their return to the continental stage since 2006.

The decisive moment came in the 27th minute when forward Pooja scored the match’s only goal. Initiating a swift counter-attack, Pooja delivered a precise cross from the right. The ball eluded defenders, allowing Neha to redirect it back into the danger zone. Positioned perfectly at the goalmouth, Pooja reacted instinctively, guiding the ball over the line with her torso to give India a crucial lead. The goal settled nerves, and India maintained their slender advantage into halftime, dominating possession in the first half.

The second half saw Myanmar, buoyed by fervent home support, launch a relentless offensive. India’s goalkeeper, Monalisha Devi, who had kept clean sheets in the previous two matches, was pivotal in preserving the lead. In the 48th minute, she made a crucial save to deny Myanmar’s Su Su Khin. With 10 minutes remaining, Monalisha’s heroics continued as she thwarted a dangerous header from substitute Moe Pwint Phyu, which struck the upright and rolled along the goal line before she cleared it to safety. Phyu hit the woodwork again in the 90th minute, but India’s defense held firm.

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India nearly doubled their lead in the dying moments when Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam’s cross found Sulanjana Raul, whose header struck the crossbar. Despite Myanmar’s late pressure, the Young Tigresses displayed resilience, absorbing wave after wave of attacks to secure the 1-0 victory.

Finishing atop Group D with seven points, India’s qualification underscores the growing prowess of women’s football in the country. The team’s blend of attacking flair, led by Pooja and Neha, and defensive solidity, anchored by Monalisha, sets an optimistic tone for their campaign in Thailand next year.

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