The defeat marked another missed opportunity for India’s maiden on-merit qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup. | Photo Credit: AIFF MEDIA

India’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 ended after a 0-3 defeat to defending champion Uzbekistan in its final AFC U-17 Asian Cup Group D match at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on Sunday.

The result knocked the Blue Colts out of the tournament, while Uzbekistan advanced alongside Australia from the group.

Needing a win after its heavy defeat to Australia in the opener, India started cautiously as Uzbekistan dominated possession and tested the defence with quick attacking moves. Despite the pressure, goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar produced several important saves to keep India in the contest.

However, India fell behind in the 32nd minute after Sarkar fouled Laziz Abduraimov inside the box while attempting to intercept an attack. Abduraimov converted the resulting penalty calmly into the bottom corner.

India nearly equalised in first-half stoppage time when Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam’s cross flashed across goal, but no attacker could connect.

The Blue Colts showed more urgency after the break and came closest in the 56th minute when Dallalmuon Gangte’s free-kick struck the crossbar. Heeranganba Seram failed to convert the rebound from close range.

Uzbekistan doubled the lead four minutes later through an unfortunate own goal by Wangkhem Denny Singh from a corner. Akhrorbek Ravshanbekov sealed the win in the 78th minute after reacting quickest to a rebound inside the box.

The defeat marked another missed opportunity for India’s maiden on-merit qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Published on May 11, 2026