India's youth football team has secured a coveted spot in the prestigious AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026, thanks to a commanding performance led by striker Rajrup Sarkar. The young prodigy's brilliant hat-trick was the centerpiece of a decisive 4-0 victory over Guam in their final Group B qualifying match held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Dominant Display Seals Qualification
The crucial encounter took place on Sunday, where the Indian colts needed a win to confirm their progression. The team, under the guidance of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), delivered under pressure. Rajrup Sarkar opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, setting the tone for the match. He didn't stop there, adding two more goals in the 50th and 66th minutes to complete a magnificent hat-trick and put the result beyond doubt.
India's dominance was further cemented when Bharath Kanumuri found the net in the 80th minute, rounding off a comprehensive 4-0 scoreline. This victory was essential after the team had faced a setback in their previous game, a 1-0 loss to hosts Uzbekistan. The win over Guam ensured India finished second in Group B, which was enough to secure one of the best runners-up slots for the main tournament.
The Road to Saudi Arabia 2026
The qualification journey for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026 saw India navigate a challenging group. Their campaign began with a strong 7-0 thrashing of Brunei, showcasing their attacking prowess early on. The narrow defeat to a strong Uzbek side tested their resolve, but the team responded perfectly in the must-win clash against Guam.
By finishing as one of the top six second-placed teams across all groups, India successfully booked their ticket to the final competition. The AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia. This qualification marks a significant achievement for the development of football in the country, providing invaluable international exposure to the next generation of Indian players.
Building for the Future
This successful qualification is a testament to the structured youth development programs being implemented in Indian football. Competing against Asia's best youth teams in Saudi Arabia will be a monumental learning experience for the squad. The performance of players like Rajrup Sarkar, who emerged as the hero of the qualification campaign, offers great hope for the future of the sport in India.
The focus will now shift to preparations for the main event. The AIFF and the team's coaching staff will aim to build a competitive side capable of making a mark on the continental stage in 2026. This achievement serves as a powerful motivator for young footballers across the nation and underscores the growing potential of Indian football at the youth level.
