AFC Asian U17 Qualifiers: Three lessons to be learnt for India from Lebanon fixture
The Blue Colts lost to Lebanon by a 2-0 scoreline
The India U17 Men’s team faced a 0-2 loss against an organised Lebanon side in their Group D clash of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad on Friday, November 28, 2025.
After a draw against Palestine and a comfortable victory against Chinese Taipei, India suffered their first defeat of the Qualifiers, but the Blue Colts remain alive in the qualification race, and will face group leaders IR Iran in a do-or-die contest on Sunday, with only a victory securing their passage to the AFC U17 Asian Cup for the 10th time in history.
But here are three things that India need to work on before facing IR Iran
Need to improve accuracy
One of the most telling aspects of the match was India’s repeated inability to turn their numerous shots on target into goals. Bibiano Fernandes’ boys carved out openings with moves that split the opposition backline. They caught Lebanon unprepared on several occasions, driving forward with pace and purpose, only for the final outcome to fall short.
Efforts that were well-placed and technically sound were met by strong goalkeeping, last-second blocks, or simply lacked the clinical edge. Despite consistently working their way into dangerous areas and testing the defence with accurate attempts, the finishing touch never arrived. In the end, their inability to convert those on-target shots became the difference, overshadowing an energetic performance.
India’s defensive lapses overshadow goalkeeping efforts
If the goalkeeper ends up being the standout performer, it often reflects deeper problems within the team but yesterday, even Rajrup Sarkar couldn’t carry that burden. Though he came up with a couple of strong saves, it was ultimately a tough day for the 16-year-old. He conceded two goals, and his reflexes, usually one of his biggest strengths, didn’t seem at their sharpest. Lebanon found gaps far too easily, and every time they pressed forward, Rajrup was left exposed and forced into difficult situations.
For a keeper who has been good with calm shot-stopping and quick reactions, this performance highlighted just how much pressure the team allowed Lebanon to generate. Rajrup fought, but he couldn’t rescue the side the way he often has. It’s a reminder that when the defensive structure falters and the opposition is allowed repeated runs on goal, even a talented young goalkeeper will struggle.
Lack of control in key moments
India have repeatedly shown that they struggle to keep control of the game for long periods, and the same problem was visible again against Lebanon. From the very beginning, the Blue Colts found it hard to settle.
They lost possession too easily in the first half, which stopped them from building any kind of momentum. Every time they tried to move forward, a loose touch or a rushed pass broke the flow, allowing Lebanon to grow in confidence and put pressure on India.
For India, improving their focus, confidence in the ball, and ability to manage momentum will be key in the games ahead.
When will India U17 play next?
India U17 will play next on November 30 against Iran
Who are at the top of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers group D points table?
Iran are at the top of the points table with 7 points.
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Balancing her medical studies with a strong passion for Indian football, Preethi has been a dedicated follower of the sport. Her speciality is covering and discovering stories, talking to players, conducting their interviews, and drafting articles. She particularly covers Hyderabad FC and other stories from the ISL and I-League.