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In a decisive match on May 8, India triumphed over Lebanon with a 4-0 scoreline in their final Group B encounter at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre Pitch 8, keeping their hopes for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2026 quarter-finals alive. Pritika Barman was a standout performer, scoring two goals, while Alva Devi Senjam and Joya also contributed to the scoreline, marking India's first win and goals in this tournament since 2005.

This impressive victory positions India favorably for a quarter-final spot as one of the top two third-placed teams, according to a statement from the All India Football Federation (AIFF). For the Philippines to advance, they would need to defeat Chinese Taipei by 12 goals, while Chinese Taipei would require a 13-goal margin.

With qualification on the line, India made a single change from their previous match, bringing in Anushka Kumari for Pearl Fernandes. They quickly took control, scoring in the sixth minute. Divyani Linda sent a long ball from right-back, which Pritika skillfully controlled before evading Lebanon's Joya Bou Assaf and firing a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Marie Joe Chebly.

This early goal boosted the Young Tigresses' confidence, allowing them to dominate possession and press aggressively in the attacking zone. India nearly increased their lead shortly after, but Anushka's shot was saved by Marie. Pritika continued to challenge the Lebanese defense, coming close to scoring again in the 16th minute.

Lebanon struggled to match India's pace and movement, particularly on the flanks. The second goal came in the 35th minute when Redima Devi Chingkhamayum passed to Alva Devi Senjam, who skillfully maneuvered past Gianna Frangieh and slotted the ball into the net, giving India a 2-0 lead at halftime.

The second half began with India maintaining their attacking momentum, pushing Lebanon deeper into their half and controlling the game.

India's efforts were rewarded again in the 72nd minute when Joya showcased her skills. After receiving the ball on the left, she displayed remarkable control, evaded two defenders, and curled a right-footed shot into the net, extending the lead to 3-0.

Pritika capped off a stellar performance five minutes before the end, completing her brace. She surged into the penalty area unchallenged and finished calmly past Marie, sealing the match.

The final whistle marked a historic moment for the Young Tigresses, as they celebrated their first victory in the competition in over 20 years and edged closer to qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time in 21 years.

India U17 Women: Munni (GK), Elizabed Lakra (C) (Alena Devi Sarangthem 85'), Divyani Linda, Thandamoni Baskey (Bonifilia Shullai 75'), Julan Nongmaithem (Joya 58'), Anushka Kumari (Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam 75'), Ritu Badaik, Pritika Barman, Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi Senjam (Pearl Fernandes 75').