New Delhi, 12 February (H.S.): The draw for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026, conducted on Thursday at AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, placed India in Group D alongside formidable opponents Uzbekistan, Australia, and North Korea.The 21st edition of the tournament will unfold from May 5 to 24, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, featuring 16 teams divided into four groups of four.

India secured qualification through a stellar performance in the November 2025 qualifiers, topping Group D ahead of Iran, Lebanon, Palestine, and Chinese Taipei—this marks their 10th appearance in the competition.

Group Composition:Group A: Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Thailand, Myanmar

Group B: Japan, Indonesia, China, QatarGroup C: South Korea, Yemen, Vietnam, UAE

Group D: Uzbekistan, Australia, India, North Korea

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals and qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026. India's schedule includes matches against Australia, Uzbekistan, and North Korea, presenting a stern test despite the confidence gained from qualifiers.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar