Suzhou, May 8 — Pritika Barman scored twice as India demolished Lebanon 4-0 in their final Group B fixture of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup 2026 at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Friday, keeping their quarterfinal hopes alive. Alva Devi Senjam (36th minute) and Joya (72nd minute) also scored as India registered their first win and first goals in the tournament since 2005.

Historic breakthrough for Indian women's football

The emphatic victory marks a watershed moment for the Young Tigresses. India's first win in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in over two decades, combined with their dominant performance, leaves them in pole position to qualify as one of the tournament's two best third-placed teams. The result also represents the first time India has scored in this competition since their maiden participation in 2005.

Pritika's commanding display

Pritika Barman set the tone early, breaking the deadlock in the 7th minute with a composed left-footed finish after Divyani Linda's long ball from right-back. The winger controlled the ball brilliantly, twisted past Lebanon defender Joya Bou Assaf, and struck past goalkeeper Marie Joe Chebly. She added her second in the 85th minute, driving unchallenged into the penalty area and finishing calmly to seal the rout.

Dominant midfield control and clinical finishing

Alva Devi Senjam doubled India's lead in the 36th minute, receiving a threaded pass from Redima Devi Chingkhamayum at the edge of the box and slotting past the advancing goalkeeper. Joya added the third in the 72nd minute with a moment of individual brilliance — cutting inside from the left wing, skipping past two defenders, and curling a right-footed strike into the net. India's midfield maintained relentless pressure through quick transitions and intelligent positioning, while Lebanon struggled to cope with India's movement in wide areas.

Qualification path clarified

The margin of victory has dramatically simplified India's path to the knockout stage. The Philippines would now need to defeat Chinese Taipei by 12 goals, while Chinese Taipei would require a 13-goal victory — scenarios so improbable that India's qualification for the quarterfinals for the first time in 21 years appears virtually assured.

Team changes and tactical setup

India made one change from their previous match, with Anushka Kumari replacing Pearl Fernandes. The tactical shift paid dividends, as the Young Tigresses began with attacking intent and seized control from the opening minutes. Their second-half intensity remained undiminished, with India controlling possession for extended spells and consistently creating danger down the flanks.