Four Indian teams entered continental championships this year, raising hopes that at least one could break the jinx and become the first to qualify for a FIFA World Cup on sporting merit. Ultimately, all hopes were dashed.
The Under-17 girls' team, which fought their way to the quarterfinals of the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup, was the country's best bet. However, India found hosts China too strong in the last-eight clash, losing 0-3 at the Suzhou Sports Centre Stadium in Suzhou on Monday.
China dominated from start to finish, enjoying nearly 75 percent ball possession and firing 28 shots on goal. India, in contrast, saw little of the ball and managed only a couple of attempts. Pamela Conti's side showed bravery in the first half-hour, holding the former semifinalists goalless. But before the end of the first half, the Young Tigresses conceded twice.
The goal that likely broke their resolve came at the stroke of halftime from the penalty spot, with the last kick of the first half. With China leading 2-0, the doors for a comeback were almost shut.
India players crowded South Korean referee Park Sejin at halftime, questioning the penalty award. Coach Conti also raised concerns from the sidelines after Ritu Badaik was adjudged to have brought down Liu Yuxi inside the penalty area. Yuxi herself stepped up to convert the spot-kick in the fourth minute of first-half added time, giving China a 2-0 advantage at the break. Earlier, Huang Qinyi (38th minute) provided the breakthrough, while Li Qixian (90th minute) added another in the closing minutes.
Before China opened the scoring, India almost caught the home team napping against the run of play just before the half-hour mark. Joya connected with Pritika Barman's cross inside the box, but the effort was blocked before India earned a corner.
For most of the game, India were pushed into their own half. Abhista Basnett, Elizabed Lakra, Ritu, and captain Divyani Linda did their best to keep the marauding opponents at bay. Goalkeeper Munni also had plenty of saves to make.
China confirmed their ticket to the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 with the win and will face defending champions North Korea in the semifinals on Thursday.
