On Friday, India’s U17 women’s football team pulled off an amazing upset, beating Uzbekistan 2-1 to qualify for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup in China next year for the first time in history.
After Shakhzoda Alikhonova scored a spectacular volley to put Uzbekistan ahead in the 38th minute, the game seemed tough. India needed a boost, and head coach Joakim Alexandersson’s tactical change in the 40th minute made all the difference. Thandamoni Baskey took over for Bonifilia Shullai, and 15 minutes later, she scored to tie the game.
Baskey wasn’t finished. She set up Anushka Kumari’s goal in the 66th minute, which gave India the lead and, in the end, the win. The win put India at the top of Group G with six points, which gave them their first-ever continental qualification at the U17 level. The last time the Young Tigresses played in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup was in 2005.
“It was a tough game, but our team stayed strong and calm.” Alexander added, “Thandamoni’s effect after he came on was amazing.”
India had begun carefully, playing on the counter as Uzbekistan looked for openings on the wings. Uzbekistan’s goalkeeper Mariya Khalkulova stopped early attempts, such Anushka Kumari’s shot from outside the area. But the breakthrough came from smart tactics and hard work.
Baskey’s quick thinking and vigilance turned the Young Tigresses’ first-half problems around. He not only tied the game but also set up the winning goal by taking advantage of a mistake by Uzbekistan’s defense.
India’s U17 women’s team will now play in the 2026 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup in China. This is a historic win that will inspire a new generation of young footballers.