India aim to register their first win in AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers as they lock horns with Chinese Taipei

India’s first game ended in a draw.

The Indian U17 team could not start their campaign in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers with a win, but they will have an opportunity on Wednesday to start afresh. The Blue Colts face Chinese Taipei in their second match of the qualifiers at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST.

The defending SAFF U17 champions will be aiming to register their first win in the qualifiers before it is too late. There is only one AFC U17 Asian Cup spot on offer. The table toppers in the group will make their way to the main tournament, and India are currently in fourth place with one point.

The Stakes

India U17

The Blue Colts are in a group that has teams like Iran, Lebanon, Chinese Taipei, and Palestine. India will face a tough challenge in the qualifiers, and each match has its value. Only the group toppers will qualify for the AFC U17 Asian Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2026.

The Indian team will be desperate to make their presence felt in their own backyard. Collecting the maximum points each time the Blue Colts take the field will be the only priority on Bibiano Fernandes’ checklist, and the match against Chinese Taipei will be an opportunity for his boys to register their first three points.

Chinese Taipei

Chinese Taipei had a similar start to India in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers. They have begun their campaign in the qualifiers with a draw against Lebanon. That match ended in a goalless draw at the EKA Arena.

Chinese Taipei will be eager to not just earn all three points but also score some breathtaking goals. They have never qualified for the AFC U17 Asian Cup in the past, and Group B is not an easy code to crack. The result against the Blue Colts will have an impact on their campaign.

Teams News

India and Chinese Taipei will start their AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign with their full-strength squad.

Player to watch out for

Azlaan Shah

Azlaan Shah was one of the best players for India 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.

Predicted Lineup

India U17

Manashjyoti Baruah, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Shubham Poonia, Korou Meitei, Thonggoumang Touthang, Rahan Ahmed, Dallalmuon Gangte, Md Aimaan, Lesvin Rebelo, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam

Where to watch AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers?

The India vs Chinese Taipei match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST and will be live-streamed on FIFA+.

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