Three India U17 players who can create impact against Chinese Taipei U17 in AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers

India settled for a draw against Palestine.

India U17 will face Chinese Taipei U17 in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday. The Blue Colts started their campaign in the qualifiers with a draw against Palestine at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. The hosts will aim to secure a win on Wednesday, securing three points and marking their first victory in the qualifiers.

Bibiano Fernandes‘ team had an impressive game against Palestine, but missed the trick when it came to finishing off their chances against Chinese Taipei. The Blue Colts will look to rectify those mistakes, and these are the three players who can make a big contribution in doing so.

Azlaan Shah

Azlaan Shah was one of India’s best players in the first qualifier against Palestine. The youngster was a prominent outlet for the Blue Colts on the wings to forge attacking moves. Azlaan combined well with the likes of Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam to put the opposition under pressure.

Bibiano Fernandes will be expecting a similar performance from the winger against Chinese Taipei. The Blue Colts require their forwards, like Azlaan, to step up and convert those chances as well.

Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam

Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam was one of India’s best performers in the game against Palestine. His combination with Azalaan worked for the hosts, and the fans will again have high hopes for the duo. Gunleiba made some dangerous runs into the box that made the opposition defense run for their money.

Gunleiba had a significant role in India’s glorious run in the SAFF U17 Championship. His attacking instincts boost India’s attacking capabilities. The 16-year-old will look to break Chinese Taipei’s defensive unit, which held Lebanon to a draw.

Rahan Ahmad

Rahan Ahmed emerged as one of the most promising players for India in the SAFF U17 Men’s Championship 2025. The young No. 9 produced some clutch performances for the Blue Colts in the group stage that helped them complete a glorious run.

The hosts lacked sharpness in front of goal against Palestine, failing to convert their chances. Rahan Ahmad is a name who has the responsibility of making India’s presence count in the opposition box.

The match against Chinese Taipei will be an opportunity for Rahan to establish again why he is a highly touted talent.

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