India’s U20 women’s football team has ended a two-decade wait by qualifying for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Myanmar in Yangon on Sunday.

Pooja’s strike in the 27th minute proved decisive as India topped Group D with seven points, securing their place in the 2026 main tournament scheduled to be held in Thailand.

India dominated the first half, launching multiple attacks that tested the home side’s defence. Early chances came through a combined effort by Neha and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, but the breakthrough arrived when Pooja initiated a swift counter-attack, crossing from the right flank. The ball eluded defenders but found Neha, who cleverly sent it back into the box for Pooja to score by placing the ball over the line with her torso.

Also read: India’s women boxers win 9 medals at Asian U19 Championships

The goal steadied the Indian side, who maintained control into halftime. However, the second half belonged largely to Myanmar, buoyed by the fervent home crowd at Thuwunna Stadium. The hosts pressed aggressively, forcing India’s goalkeeper Monalisha Devi into several crucial saves, including a spectacular stop in the 48th minute to deny Su Su Khin.

Despite relentless pressure and attempts that rattled the crossbar twice late in the match, India’s defence held firm. Substitutes Moe Pwint Phyu and Sulanjana Raul came close to equalising, but the Indian team’s resilience prevailed.

The victory not only marked a historic qualification but also showcased the rising talent and tenacity of India’s young women footballers. This is the first time India’s U20 women’s team has qualified for the Asian Cup since 2006, signalling a promising future for the sport in the country.