India U17 seek AFC U17 Asian Cup qualification against formidable Iran U17 side
India U17 football team are currently placed third in the group.
India U17 football team, led by Bibiano Fernandes, are aiming for a berth at the AFC U17 Asian Cup and have experienced all three results in their journey so far with a draw, a win, and a loss. After sharing points with Palestine, beating Chinese Taipei and falling short against Lebanon, the Blue Colts now turn to face the toughest test in the group in the form of Iran.
The defending SAFF champions will be aiming to improve their position with this fixture. There is only one AFC U17 Asian Cup spot and The table toppers in the group will make their way to the main tournament, and India are currently in the third place with four points.
The Stakes
Team India
The Blue Colts have slipped to third place in the group following their defeat to Lebanon, leaving them with four points from their opening three matches of the qualifiers. For India, the qualification equation is straightforward, which is that They must defeat Iran to keep their qualification hopes alive.
A win for the Blue Colts would bring both teams level on points, but India would hold the advantage through the head-to-head result, allowing them to edge past their opponents
Team Iran
Sitting comfortably at the top of the table with two wins and a draw, Iran have showcased why they are considered one of the strongest teams in the group
As they prepare to face India, Iran will see this clash as an opportunity to strengthen their hold on the standings. A positive result would not only extend their lead but almost certainly confirm the qualification
Team News
India will miss the services of Thonggoumang Touthang who received a red card in the fixture against Lebanon
Iran will start their AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign with their full-strength squad.
Player to look out for
Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam
Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam has been at the heart of India’s campaign, delivering steady and impactful performances across all three matches. Not only does he created chances he is often seen controlling the midfield well and setting the right momentum for the team.
In all the games, despite the result, he remained one of India’s most active players, constantly pushing forward and trying to get a goal back for the Blue Colts. As India head into their clash against Iran, this could be the moment where his efforts are finally rewarded. With his confidence growing and his involvement increasing with every game, Gunleiba may be the player who might change the game for the Blue Colts tomorrow.
Predicted line-up
Team India
Rajrup Sarkar, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Shubham Poonia, Korou Meitei, Lawmsangzuala, Azlaan Shah, Dallalmuon Gangte, Md Aimaan, Lesvin Rebelo, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam
Where to watch AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers?
The India vs Iran match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST and will be live-streamed on FIFA+.
What time does the India U17 vs Iran U17 match start?
The match kicks off at 7:30 PM IST.
Where can I watch the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifier live?
The game will be live-streamed on FIFA+.
What is India’s qualification scenario in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers?
India must defeat Iran to stay qualify. A win would pull them level on points and give them the head-to-head advantage.
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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.