India’s U15 football team, known as the
Following this result, the Indian side is now scheduled to face Kazakhstan in the semi-finals for positions 85 to 88. Kazakhstan entered this fixture after suffering a defeat to Hungary in their own quarter-final encounter.
Early Dominance Fails to Yield Goals
The match began with India showing significant promise, putting the Afghanistan defence under pressure from the opening minutes. In the sixth minute, R Lalremruatfela sent a dangerous low cross into the box that the opposing goalkeeper failed to secure cleanly. However, Victor Lalawmpuia was unable to react in time to turn the loose ball into the net. Shortly after, Nibas Meetei Wahengbam regained possession in the penalty area, setting up Lalremruatfela for a left-footed strike that was ultimately saved by the keeper.
The Blue Colts continued to threaten in the ninth minute when Nibas delivered a precise through ball intended for Lalawmpuia. The Afghanistan goalkeeper remained alert, rushing off his line to intercept the ball before the Indian forward could reach it. Despite this sustained pressure, India were unable to break the deadlock.
Afghanistan Capitalise on Opportunities
Against the run of play, Afghanistan seized the lead in the 15th minute. A cross from the left flank found Mohammad Mustafa, who managed to evade his marker, Birjit Singh Amom, and converted a right-footed volley to put his side ahead. The lead was extended in the 27th minute following an error in the Indian backline. After being pressured by Khair Mohammad Nazari, Nara Meitei Loushambam misdirected a pass that was intercepted by Shahzada Sultani. The attacker drove into the box and fired a powerful strike into the roof of the net.
India managed to pull a goal back in the 37th minute when Lalremruatfela controlled a long ball inside the box and laid it off for Nibas, who finished with composure. Although the Blue Colts pushed intensely for an equaliser in the final stages of the match, the Afghanistan defence held firm to secure the victory.
