The U-17 women of India began their campaign of Asian Cup qualifiers in the AFC with a very exciting 2-1 win. In Bishkek, the Young Tigresses (India’s U-17 women’s team) struck early through Pearl Fernandes in the 27th minute, only to see hosts Kyrgyzstan equalize before half-time.
Likewise, the match seemed destined for a draw until captain Julan Nongmaithem rose in stoppage time to volley home the winner. This dramatic finish – like a bolt from the blue – handed India all three points and a huge confidence boost in the AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers opener.
The performance showed grit, flair, and deadly finishing that fans hope will carry through the qualifiers.
Bishkek Battle: Young Tigresses Snatch Victory in AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers
India’s opener was an edge-of-the-seat battle. They raced into a lead when Pearl Fernandes finished a slick passing move, finding the bottom corner in the 27th minute.
Similarly, the goal was a crisp left-footed drive, as sharp as an arrow, after intricate buildup play. However, just six minutes later, Kyrgyzstan’s Akmaral Saiakbaeva pounced on a defensive lapse to level the score.
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H.T -1:1 , 😭 defensive error cost us , beautiful goal by pearl Fernandes.
—–God help—-
—-India win 🥺—-— 90min_India (@90min_India) October 13, 2025
H.T -1:1 , 😭 defensive error cost us , beautiful goal by pearl Fernandes.
—–God help—-
—-India win 🥺—-
Both teams battled hard – India controlled possession while Kyrgyzstan threatened on the break – but neither could find a winner. It almost seemed as though the game was heading to a draw, but the last-minute drama happened.
- Early Spark: Pearl Fernandes took the lead at 27 and scored with a fine finish, as a result of good team play.
- Swift Response: Kyrgyzstan’s Akmaral Saiakbaeva equalized in the 33′ minute, hammering home after India’s backline slipped.
- Decisive Climax: During the stoppage time, the perfectly floated corner of Pritika Barman caught the captain Julan Nongmaithem flying like a hawk above her and ran towards the goal.
- Final Score: India 2–1 Kyrgyz Republic.
This win sends India to the top of Group G in the AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers and reignites hopes of reaching the finals. It was India’s first competitive match in Bishkek, and the victory felt hard-fought, reflecting a cagey chess match under floodlights.
The late winner kept the Indian camp jubilant, and they are now eyeing their first U-17 Asian Cup finals since 2005.
Heroes Emerge in the AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers Showdown
The man of the hour was unquestionably Captain Julan Nongmaithem. Her injury-time volley was the match-winner and showed why she leads this side.
After assisting Pearl’s goal, Julan never stopped running and battling. When the corner came in, she timed her leap perfectly and guided the ball home with fierce intent.
Her heroic late performance resulted in headlines and made her the talisman of the team. But credit also goes to the whole squad. Pearl Fernandes’ smart finishing and work rate set the tone.
Midfielders and defenders showed resilience; when Kyrgyz had a near-goal chance, Elizabed Lakra sprinted back to make a critical clearance. Goalie Munni (Manisha Bhandari) was alert early on to keep the match level.
Together they fought “a fierce battle of wills” with Kyrgyzstan’s defence. The team showed their true spirit on the field.
Captain Julan (No.7) was a true leader, changing frustration into motivation. At the same time, others, such as Pearl (No.9) and defender Elizabeth, jumped in like tigers when they were needed.
The press and fans saw India’s strong will and teamwork: even when they scored the equalizer, the team stayed calm. This win under stress shows they have the strong mind to get through the qualifiers.
The mood in Bishkek was exciting – India’s players cheered like boxers after a big win – and you can feel their confidence growing as the qualifiers went onn .
Next Steps in the AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers Journey
This win helps India a lot for the rest of the qualifiers. Young Tigresses hold the first position in Group G, and now they are planning their next match with Uzbekistan.
Only the team that comes in first moves on to the final tournament with 12 teams in China (May 2026). Every point matters now. India needs to stay strong and keep going.
This win was a start – now they need to keep it going. Also, Coach Joakim Alexandersson and his team will probably adjust plans and help the players stay relaxed.
The players know what is at risk – one mistake could ruin everything – but they will use this good feeling to keep going. The qualifiers can seem long, but India has started strong and fast.
If they play with a lot of spirit, the Young Tigresses might make it to the Asian Cup finals for the first time by qualifying. In short, India’s U-17 women had a great beginning in the AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers.
They showed determination, style and made a big comeback to win the game. Being a reporter at the game, I observed a team that would not give up at all – they won the game and defended it.
This big win says a lot. The Indian U-17 team has shown up on the Asian scene. Next, there is a new chapter in Bishkek – and India will try to keep their hope of qualifying alive.
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FAQs
How did India start their AFC Women Asian Cup qualifiers?
India’s U-17 women began the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers with a 2-1 win over Kyrgyzstan. They scored first, conceded once, then secured the victory with a stoppage-time goal.
Who scored in India’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifier match?
Pearl Fernandes opened the scoring for India in the 27th minute, and captain Julan Nongmaithem struck the winner in injury time.
What does India’s win in the AFC Women Asian Cup qualifiers mean?
The win gives India a confident start and top spot in Group G. It provides crucial momentum and a strong advantage as only the group winner advances to the 12-team final tournament.
Who will India face next in the AFC Women Asian Cup qualifiers?
India’s next (and final group) match is against Uzbekistan on October 17, 2025, in Bishkek. The result of that game will determine who tops the group.
What are the AFC Women Asian Cup qualifiers?
The AFC Women Asian Cup Qualifiers (for U-17 in this case) are a regional competition where national teams compete for spots in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup finals. In 2025, teams are in groups and only the group winners advance to the final tournament in China (May 2026). The qualifiers are high-stakes, and India’s winning start puts them in a strong position.
