India U17 fall narrowly to Türkiye in international friendly

India prepares for the big continental challenge ahead

As India prepare for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, every international fixture forms a vital part of their build-up. In that context, the India U-17 men’s team suffered a narrow 0–1 defeat against hosts Türkiye in the first of their two scheduled international friendly fixtures, played at the Emirhan Sport Center in Manavgat, Antalya on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The Boys in Blue led by Bibiano Fernandes suffered a close narrow defeat against the Türkiye National team.

A tight contest with narrow defeat

The game began with Türkiye striking early as they took the lead in the 12th minute from the penalty spot after Lawmsangzuala brought down Eymen Erdoğan inside the box. The FC Köln U17 winger stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner.

India gradually grew into the contest and came close to equalizing in the 26th minute when Denny Singh Wangkhem’s header from Md Aimaan Bin’s cross went inches wide, before captain Dallalmuon Gangte sent a 20-yard free-kick just over the crossbar in the 37th minute.

India continued to push after the break, with Gangte testing the Turkish goalkeeper from 25 yards in the 67th minute. Türkiye earned another penalty late on when Korou Meitei Konthoujam fouled Alaettin Ekici in the 85th minute, but Ekici blazed his effort over the bar, allowing the scoreline to remain unchanged at full time.

Challenge Ahead for the Blue Tigers

The challenge ahead now intensifies for the boys of Bibiano Fernandes as they continue their preparations for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.

With another friendly against Türkiye scheduled on 12th February, India will look to build on the positives, sharpen their finishing, and translate promising performances into results against high-quality opposition.

The Blue Tigers will face Türkiye again on February 12 at the same venue at 14:30 IST.

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