India U17 Women Arrive in China for AFC Asian Cup Challenge

by Chandler D'silva April 28, 2026

The India women’s national under-17 football team have arrived in Suzhou, China, on April 27 as they gear up for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026, marking a significant return to the continental stage after a 21-year absence.

Following a preparatory camp in Gurugram, the Young Tigresses will begin their campaign in Group B against strong opposition, taking on Australia, Japan, and Lebanon. All of India’s fixtures will be played at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre pitches.

Under head coach Pamela Conti, the team has undergone an extensive preparation phase spanning over three months, primarily based in Bengaluru. The squad also gained valuable match exposure through international friendlies, including outings against Myanmar and Russia, alongside winning the SAFF U19 Women’s Championship earlier this year.

The competition format sees the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, advancing to the quarter-finals. The stakes are even higher as the four semi-finalists will qualify for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026.

India held their first training session in Suzhou on arrival day, aiming to fine-tune preparations ahead of their opening fixture.

India’s Fixtures – AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026

• May 2, 17:00 IST: Australia vs India (Pitch 8)
• May 5, 17:00 IST: India vs Japan (Pitch 4)
• May 8, 13:00 IST: India vs Lebanon (Pitch 8)

India’s 23-Member Squad

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

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Pamela Conti
Assistant Coaches: Vincenzo Conti, Nivetha Ramadoss
Goalkeeping Coach: Mario Aguiar
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Amit Yadav

With a blend of structured preparation and international exposure, India U17 Women head into the tournament with confidence and ambition, aiming to make a strong impression on their return to the continental stage.

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