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India U17 Beat Iran 2-1 to Clinch AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Berth

A head-to-head tiebreak sends India through to a finals draw on February 12.

Overview

  • In a must-win qualifier at Ahmedabad’s EKA Arena on November 30, India overturned an early deficit to win 2-1.
  • Amirreza Valipoor struck for Iran in the 19th minute before Dallalmuon Gangte equalised from a penalty at 45+1' and Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam netted the winner early in the second half.
  • India and Iran finished level on seven points, with India advancing on the head-to-head rule after Iran required only a draw.
  • Goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar made crucial saves to preserve the lead in front of a reported crowd of 4,928.
  • The result finalised the 16-team field for the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia from May 7–24, marking India’s 10th appearance at the tournament.