Panaji: India U-17 coach Bibiano Fernandes believes his team is in excellent form to exceed expectations and become the first Indian side to qualify for a FIFA World Cup on sporting merit. A victory against Iran in the qualifiers demonstrated India's potential in this age group. Bibiano's team now requires just one win against Australia on May 6 or Uzbekistan on May 10 in Group D in Jeddah to secure a spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup later this year.
Group dynamics after North Korea's withdrawal
Following North Korea's withdrawal due to security concerns in Saudi Arabia, the group now consists of only three teams. Two of these will advance to the knockout stage and earn a place in the World Cup. This development has increased India's chances significantly.
"Looks like we are very close," Bibiano told TOI over a video call from Qatar on Thursday. "Since the first batch in 2018, we have performed well, even reaching the quarterfinals. Why not now? After so many years, I am certain India have progressed in terms of development. This is a promising batch, and we saw what they can achieve in the qualifiers against Iran. We are all hopeful that we can deliver one inspiring performance that can change everything."
India's World Cup history
India's only participation at a FIFA World Cup came in 2017 when the country hosted the U-17 competition. However, they lost all three matches against Ghana, Colombia, and the United States. This time, the team aims to make history by qualifying through merit.
"North Korea's withdrawal does not alter our preparations. We understand that one win now can take us to the World Cup, but we need to be at our best, like against Iran, to secure victory. We are working hard, and I believe our boys will deliver," said Bibiano, whose side managed two draws against Qatar earlier this week.
Confidence from past performances
Bibiano's confidence stems from India's strong performances under his guidance since 2018, when the team finished among the top eight in Asia. India drew goalless with China and Iran and defeated Vietnam by a solitary goal before losing 0-1 to South Korea in the decisive clash. If Bibiano can lead the team to the quarterfinals, India will earn a place in the 48-team World Cup.
Expanded World Cup format
The FIFA U-17 World Cup returns to Qatar later this year, marking the second of five consecutive editions that the country will host annually through 2029. Following a landmark 2025 tournament that saw Qatar host the first ever FIFA competition featuring 48 teams, this year's edition will continue the expanded format.
