AIFF announce Pamela Conti as the coach of Indian U17 Women’s National Team

AIFF brings experienced Italian coach to lead India U-17

The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) has handed the charge of the India U-17 women’s national team to Pamela Conti, underlining its intent to build a stronger foundation at the youth level. The 43-year-old Italian coach steps in at an important moment, with the Young Blue Tigresses gearing up for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026.

Conti has already settled into her new role, joining the team at their ongoing training camp in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. With preparations well underway, the focus is firmly on shaping a competitive unit capable of making its mark on the continental stage in the years to come.

A decorated career in playing and coaching

Pamela Conti enjoyed a distinguished playing career, earning 90 caps and scoring 30 goals for the Italy women’s national team. She featured across top leagues in Italy, Spain, Sweden, Russia and the United States, building a strong reputation as a versatile and intelligent attacker.

Her coaching journey began in Spain with Atletico Madrid Femenino U-16, before she moved on to manage the Venezuela women’s senior and U-20 national teams. One of her biggest achievements came in 2024, when she guided Venezuela’s U-20 side to a historic FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualification.

Immediate focus on international competitions

Conti is set to make her debut on the touchline at the SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship 2026 in Pokhara, Nepal, with India opting to field U-17 squad as part of their long-term development plan. She will work closely with assistant coaches Vincenzo Conti and Nivetha Ramadoss as the Young Tigresses begin this new phase under her guidance.

Conti has already settled into her new role, joining the team at their ongoing training camp in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. With preparations well underway, the focus is firmly on shaping a competitive unit capable of making its mark on the continental stage in the years to come.

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