Uzbekistan U–17 team qualifies for World Cup after major win over India

The group stage dynamics shifted following the withdrawal of North Korea, which left Uzbekistan, Australia, and India to compete in the group. Having sat out the first round of matches, Uzbekistan entered the competition knowing a win would secure progress.

The scoring opened in the 32nd minute when Laziz Abduraimov converted a penalty. Uzbekistan doubled their lead in the 61st minute courtesy of an own goal by an Indian defender, before Ahrorbek Ravshanbekov sealed the 3–0 victory with a strike in the 77th minute.

This result also confirmed Australia's qualification for the World Cup, as they had previously defeated India in the opening round. Under the tournament regulations, the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stages and earn an automatic "ticket" to the 2026 U–17 World Cup hosted by Qatar.

Uzbekistan enters this tournament as the reigning continental champions. In April 2025, the team led by Islombek Ismoilov achieved a perfect record in Saudi Arabia, winning all six matches in Jeddah and Taif to claim the Asian title.

The final group match between Uzbekistan and Australia is scheduled for May 13, which will determine the top spot in the group. This edition marks the 21st time the Asian Football Confederation has organized the youth championship, with Uzbekistan firmly positioned among the favorites to defend their crown.