Ahmedabad, Nov 30 (NationPress) Dallalmuon Gangte and Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam each scored, leading India to a remarkable 2-1 comeback victory against Iran in their final Group D encounter at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. This triumph secured India’s qualification for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia 2026, marking their 10th participation in this prestigious tournament.

The final whistle triggered an explosion of joy from the Indian bench as players dashed onto the field, celebrating with tears, hugs, and raised fists. The Blue Colts accomplished what seemed nearly unattainable for long stretches of the match.

Entering the match with seven points, Iran was the favorite, needing only a draw to advance, while India, with four points, required a win.

When Amirreza Valipoor scored in the 19th minute due to a defensive error, the challenge appeared daunting. However, the spirited Indian squad refused to surrender. They equalized just before halftime with Dallalmuon Gangte converting a penalty in the 45+1 minute, followed by Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam scoring the decisive goal in the 52nd minute.

This victory elevated India to seven points, putting them level with Iran but ahead on head-to-head records, thereby ensuring their qualification against a formidable opponent in Asian youth football.

The early stages were dominated by Iran, who applied pressure, exhibited fluid ball movement, and forced Indian goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar into two vital saves. Despite their territorial advantage, India maintained composure and tested Iran’s defense with shots from distance, seeking gaps in their structure.

Then came the pivotal moment.

As halftime approached, a corner kick from the left created chaos in the Iranian box. Amidst the commotion, Heeranganba Seram was fouled. The referee pointed to the penalty spot. Dallalmuon Gangte stepped up, demonstrating remarkable poise under pressure, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way in the 46th minute. India now had hope and belief.

With renewed vigor, India entered the second half, and the winner arrived in the 52nd minute, capitalizing on an Iranian error. Defender Amirmahan Afrooziani misjudged a looping ball, and Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, free and calm, finished decisively past goalkeeper Bardiya Dorri. India led 2-1 against all expectations.

Iran responded with urgency, pushing forward relentlessly. A dangerous free-kick from Beheshti in the 64th minute prompted another acrobatic save from Sarkar. Crosses bombarded the Indian penalty area, and chaos ensued, but the resolute Indian defense held firm.

As the clock wound down, Iran became increasingly frantic, while India displayed remarkable maturity in managing the game's tempo, showcasing a performance filled with heart, resilience, and determination. When the final whistle blew, it confirmed a win forged in spirit and belief, making for an unforgettable evening for India's young stars in front of 4,928 fans in Ahmedabad.