India Eye First Win as Blue Colts Prepare for Crucial Clash Against Chinese Taipei

India’s U17 team will look to reset their AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign when they face Chinese Taipei on Wednesday at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. After starting their journey with a draw, the Blue Colts know they cannot afford any more slip-ups in a group where only the top team earns qualification for the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. The match is set for a 7:30 PM IST kickoff and marks a pivotal moment for Bibiano Fernandes’ young squad.

India, the defending SAFF U17 champions, find themselves in fourth place with one point. With Iran, Lebanon, Chinese Taipei and Palestine all battling for a single qualifying spot, every game carries enormous weight. The Blue Colts, playing at home, are desperate to stamp their authority early and build momentum before it’s too late. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes has made his priority clear: collect maximum points every time the team takes the field. Their encounter with Chinese Taipei presents the ideal opportunity to secure their first win of the campaign.

Chinese Taipei arrive with a similar story. Their opening fixture ended in a goalless draw against Lebanon at the same venue. Despite never having qualified for the AFC U17 Asian Cup, the side remains ambitious, knowing how influential a positive result against India could be. Group B is proving to be a testing ground for all teams involved, and Chinese Taipei will be eager not just to pick up points but to make a strong attacking statement.

Both teams are expected to deploy full-strength squads, and individual performances may decide the evening. For India, winger Azlaan Shah stands out as a key figure. His display in the first qualifier against Palestine earned praise, as he consistently sparked attacking moves down the flank. Working effectively with teammates like Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Azlaan was a constant threat. Fernandes will be counting on him once again—not just to create opportunities but to convert them when needed.

The predicted Indian lineup includes Manashjyoti Baruah, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Shubham Poonia, Korou Meitei, Thonggoumang Touthang, Rahan Ahmed, Dallalmuon Gangte, Md Aimaan, Lesvin Rebelo and Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam. With the stakes rising quickly, the Blue Colts must deliver a composed yet aggressive performance.

Fans can catch the crucial India vs Chinese Taipei encounter live on FIFA+ at 7:30 PM IST, as both teams chase their first victory and a firmer foothold in the qualifiers.