India’s next generation of footballers is set for a defining test on the continental stage as the Under 17 women’s team lands in China for a long awaited return to Asia’s premier youth competition. After more than two decades away, the Young Tigresses are ready to make their presence felt at the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026, carrying both momentum and expectation into the tournament.
The squad arrived in Suzhou on Monday following a short preparatory camp in Gurugram, marking the final phase of their build up. The city will host their opening fixtures as India prepares to compete in Group B against strong opposition. Their campaign begins with a clash against Australia, followed by matches against Japan and Lebanon, setting up a challenging group stage for the returning side.
India’s qualification for the tournament is historic in itself, as it marks their first appearance in 21 years at this level. The long gap underlines the significance of this moment for women’s youth football in the country, reflecting the gradual but steady investment in grassroots development and competitive exposure.
The tournament structure offers multiple pathways to progression. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third placed teams across all groups, will advance to the quarterfinal stage. Beyond continental success, there is an even bigger prize at stake. The four semi-finalists will secure qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026, providing a global platform for emerging talent.
Preparations for this campaign have been extensive under head coach Pamela Conti, who took charge earlier this year. Since her appointment in January, the team has undergone a structured training program spanning over three months. The majority of this camp was held in Bengaluru, where the focus was on building tactical cohesion, fitness, and match readiness.
The results during the preparation phase have offered encouraging signs. India lifted the SAFF U19 Women’s Championship 2026 title in February, showcasing their dominance in the regional circuit. The team followed this up with two wins in friendly matches against Myanmar in March, further strengthening confidence within the squad.
To test themselves against stronger international opposition, the Young Tigresses travelled to Sochi earlier this month for a series of friendlies against Russia. While the results did not go in their favour, the exposure to a physically and tactically superior side provided valuable learning experiences. Such matches are often crucial in preparing young squads for the intensity and pace of continental tournaments.
Following their return from Russia, the team regrouped for a final training camp in Gurugram from April 20 to 26. This phase focused on fine tuning strategies, recovery, and adapting to match conditions before departure to China. Upon arrival in Suzhou, the players wasted no time in settling into their routine, with their first training session scheduled for the same evening.
India’s participation in this tournament also reflects the broader rise of women’s football in the country. Increased investment by the All India Football Federation, along with more structured youth competitions, has begun to create a pathway for young players to transition into the senior national setup.
As the Young Tigresses prepare to step onto the field, the challenge ahead is formidable but filled with opportunity. Facing teams like Japan, known for their technical excellence, and Australia, with their physical strength, will test India’s adaptability and resilience. However, with a well prepared squad and recent competitive exposure, the team carries belief into the tournament.
The coming days in Suzhou will not only determine India’s progress in the competition but could also shape the future trajectory of several promising careers. For a team returning after 21 years, this is more than just participation. It is a statement of intent for the future of Indian women’s football.
India squad for AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026:
Goalkeepers: Munni, Surajmuni Kumari, Tamphasana Devi Konjengbam
Defenders: Abhista Basnett, Alena Devi Sarangthem, Alisha Lyngdoh, Divyani Linda, Elizabed Lakra, Joyshini Chanu Huidrom, Ritu Badaik, Taniya Devi Tonambam
Midfielders: Alva Devi Senjam, Bonifilia Shullai, Julan Nongmaithem, Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam, Pritika Barman, Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Thandamoni Baskey
Forwards: Anushka Kumari, Anwita Raghuraman, Joya, Pearl Fernandes, Valaina Fernandes
India’s group-stage schedule for U-17 AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026:
May 2 — Australia vs India — 5 pm — Pitch 8, Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre
May 5 — India vs Japan — 5 pm — Pitch 4, Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre
May 8 — India vs Lebanon — 1:00 pm — Pitch 8, Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre
