Pathum Thani (Thailand), April 8 (NationPress) – The Indian U20 women's national football team has successfully maintained their aspirations for qualification to the knockout stage of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026. They achieved this after securing a 3-1 victory against Chinese Taipei during their final Group C encounter at the Pathum Thani Stadium in Thailand on Wednesday.

Forward Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam was instrumental in the win, netting two goals in the 32nd and 87th minutes (penalty), following an early strike from Bhumika Devi Khumukcham in the 26th minute. Although substitute Kao Hsin managed to score for Chinese Taipei in injury time (90+3'), it wasn't enough to change the outcome. This match marked India's first victory in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup since 2004.

With this result, India concluded Group C in third place with three points from three matches. Their hopes now hinge on the outcome of the Group B match between Jordan and Uzbekistan, which is scheduled for later today. A draw in that match would allow India to qualify for the quarter-finals as one of the two best third-placed teams across all groups, while any other outcome would see the winning team advance.

The Young Tigresses, having faced defeats in their opening matches against Japan (0-6) and Australia (0-5), were determined to turn their fortunes around against Chinese Taipei. They started strongly, creating a significant opportunity within the first quarter-hour when Lhingdeikim broke through the defense, only to have her shot saved from close range.

In the 26th minute, India drew first blood when Sibani delivered a cross from the right that evaded both Lhingdeikim and Sulanjana Raul. An unmarked Bhumika arrived at the far post to strike it home, with the ball deflecting off a defender as it hit the net.

Sibani quickly followed up, winning a duel to head a bouncing ball into the box, unleashing a left-footed half-volley that found the net at the far post.

With momentum in their favor, India launched multiple attacks. Remi Thokchom had a shot saved, and Sulanjana attempted to chip the keeper but missed the target.

As the first half progressed, Chinese Taipei began to apply pressure, but India's goalkeeper Ribansi Jamu, in her tournament debut, made several crucial saves against Li Chun-mei and Tzu-yu Chuan.

The Blue Magpies started the second half with several attempts, including a header from Chuan that sailed just over the bar. However, India soon regained control, dictating play near the Chinese Taipei penalty area.

In the 72nd minute, a free-kick from substitute Neha found Sibani, whose header was tipped onto the crossbar by the Chinese Taipei goalkeeper Jian Yu-jie. The rebound fell to Pooja, but her header went over the goal.

India secured a late penalty due to a handball by a Chinese Taipei player, which Sibani converted in the 87th minute, solidifying India's lead, even though Kao Hsin managed to score a consolation goal in injury time.