In the quarterfinals of the 2026 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup, held at the Suzhou Sports Center Stadium on the evening of May 11, China’s U17 women’s team delivered a dominant performance, defeating India 3-0. The victory not only propelled them into the semifinals but also secured their place in the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
During the group stage, China had an impressive run, defeating Myanmar 6-0, Vietnam 3-0, and Thailand 6-0. They scored 15 goals without conceding any. The quarterfinal match carried extra significance as the winner would clinch a spot in the World Cup.
The match started with a scare for China in the 11th minute when a misplaced pass led to a one-on-one opportunity for India, but goalkeeper Niu Ziqi’s timely intervention and defensive clearance averted danger. In the 15th minute, Wang Chenxi’s powerful shot hit the crossbar, and Liu Yuxi’s follow-up was saved by the Indian goalkeeper.
China broke the deadlock in the 38th minute. Li Yaqi threaded a precise through ball to the right side of the box, where Liu Yuxi delivered a cut-back pass for Huang Qinyi to slot home, making it 1-0.
In stoppage time of the first half, Liu Yuxi was tripped in the box after a solo run, earning a penalty. She confidently converted, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to double the lead to 2-0.
After the break, India tightened their defense, making it difficult for China to find gaps. In the 86th minute, Cheng Wandi’s long-range effort was tipped over by the Indian keeper. However, in the 90th minute, Li Qixian pounced on a loose ball in the box and fired home to seal a 3-0 victory.
The victorious players celebrated by dancing in unison in front of their fans, radiating youthful joy. China maintained their perfect defensive record in the tournament. Their semifinal opponent will be North Korea, with the match scheduled for May 14 at 19:30.
Keep pushing, China women’s football!
