India’s U17 Women’s Team Pursues Historic Qualification in Thailand
The India U17 women’s football team has arrived in Thailand with high hopes for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualification Round 2 after topping their first-round group. In April, the team secured their spot in Round 2 by winning both matches in a group that included the Kyrgyz Republic and Myanmar. Now, they are placed in Group A alongside the Republic of Korea, Iran, and host Thailand, where the top two teams will earn berths at the final tournament in Indonesia in April 2024.
Head coach Priya P.V., recently named the AIFF Women’s Coach of the Year, is thrilled by the enthusiasm of her squad and their readiness for the challenges ahead. While acknowledging the tougher competition in Round 2, she emphasized that the team has prepared extensively, including practice matches with local boys’ teams in Goa. Priya’s experience with youth players has taught her to motivate and push them to give their best.
Despite the hurdles, Priya and her team believe in their true ability and are determined to secure qualification. She confidently asserts that India can be as competitive as countries like Korea Republic, Thailand, and Iran, all of which have prioritized grassroots development.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Statesman
