India Register Dominant Win Over Lebanon, Advance to AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Knockouts

Lebanon almost opened the scoring in the fifth minute of the game through their captain Zia Frangieh who gave a lovely lofted pass for Yara Geetani inside the penalty area. But Indian goalkeeper Munni rushed out of her box and cleared the ball with ease. Just two minutes later, India went ahead by 1-0. Preetika Barman scored a brilliant goal for the team. She outran Zoya Bou Assaf, then dribbled past Yasmina Nassar inside the box and slotted the ball over Lebanese goalkeeper Marie Jo Chebli.

?? Joya Joya twists, flicks, and finishes! ? #U17WAC | #INDvLBN pic.twitter.com/UMBBBuZgZw — AFC Women’s Football (@TheAWCL) May 8, 2026

India came close to doubling their lead in the 9th minute, but Anushka Kumari's effort was thwarted by Nassar. Geetani had a chance to equalize in the 14th minute, but her curling attempt was blocked by India captain Elisabeth Lakra, while Chebli twice prevented Preetika from close range. However, India maintained its ball possession and scored their second goal in the 36th minute. Alva Senjam made a powerful run and got past Frangieh, then Thambalkhong from Manipur calmly put a shot past Chebli to give India a comfortable lead at the break.

After the break, Lebanon increased its pace and came close to scoring in the 57th minute, but Indian goalkeeper Munni denied Yasmin El Habbal. In the 72nd minute, Zoya scored India's third goal, ensuring victory. Preetika then scored in the 85th minute, giving India a 4-0 win over Lebanon.