Kolkata, November 30: India U17 pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat IR Iran 2–1 in their final Group D match at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad, securing qualification for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026. The victory marked India’s 10th appearance in the tournament and came on a night filled with emotion, courage, and unforgettable determination.
Iran entered the match unbeaten with seven points, needing only a draw to advance. India U17, with four points, had just one option — win. The task grew tougher when Amirreza Valipoor scored in the 19th minute after a defensive error. Iran continued to dominate early on, forcing Indian goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar into two big saves from captain Mahan Beheshti. For long spells, Iran looked in full control.
But the Blue Colts refused to fade. They held their shape, stayed calm under pressure, and waited for their moment. That moment arrived right before half-time. A corner in added time caused chaos in the Iran box, and Heeranganba Seram was fouled. The referee pointed to the spot. Dallalmuon Gangte stepped up and calmly slotted home in the 45+1 minute, giving India U17 a lifeline.
The equaliser lifted the team’s confidence. In the 52nd minute, India struck again. A misjudged clearance by Iranian defender Amirmahan Afrooziani fell perfectly for Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, who finished strongly to give India U17 a 2–1 lead.
Iran pushed hard for a comeback, creating waves of pressure. Sarkar made another brilliant save from a Beheshti free-kick, and the Indian defence blocked everything thrown at them. Despite Iran’s constant attacks, India U17 showed maturity beyond their age, managing the final minutes with discipline and heart.
When the final whistle blew, the Indian bench erupted in joy. Players, substitutes, and staff flooded the pitch, celebrating a victory built on belief and bravery in front of their own people. It was a night that will be remembered as one of the Blue Colts’ finest, a comeback that carried them all the way to the Asian Cup. At a time when Indian football is struggling with issues at the domestic and club level, these young boys have given the nation a breath of fresh air, a reminder that hope still lives in the next generation.
Beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, Indian football far too often finds itself entangled in boardroom politics and administrative battles. Yet these boys chose a different path. They reminded the nation that football is ultimately won with sweat, grit, and heart on the ground — not in meeting rooms. In a year overshadowed by uncertainty and frustration across the Indian football ecosystem, this U17 team has delivered a rare, uplifting spark. Their resilience and fight have offered the country something it desperately needed: a genuine ray of hope for the future.
AFC Asian Cup Qualification U17 India U17 vs Iran U17 highlights
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