FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival: India beats Cameroon 2-1 to maintain winning start

India is the only team in Group K to have won both its matches so far at the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival | Photo Credit: AIFF

India continued its winning start at the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup & Festival Azerbaijan 2026, defeating Cameroon 2-1 in its second Group K match at the Hovsan Competition Complex Pitch 1B in Baku on Sunday.

An own goal by Fareil Ngobo gave the Blue Colts an early lead, but Cameroon equalised through Muhammad Sohil Khan’s own goal at the stroke of half-time.

R Lalremruatfela restored India’s advantage in the second half, while goalkeeper Jenit Ningthoujam produced a series of saves, including a penalty, to secure the victory.

India is now the only team in Group K to have won both its matches so far.

Despite the rainy conditions, the Blue Colts made an immediate impact. Deepak Singh Arambam’s corner in the first minute caused confusion in the Cameroon box, with Ngobo attempting a headed clearance that sent the ball into his own net.

Cameroon gradually increased the pressure, but India defended resolutely, closing down opponents in one-on-one situations and making timely sliding tackles to keep its lead intact.

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Cameroon found its equaliser in the 20th minute when Moctar’s cross from the right struck Sohil and deflected into the net for an own goal.

India began the second half with renewed intent, introducing Ronandev Aheibam at the interval. The substitute made an immediate contribution, winning possession with a strong tackle in midfield in the 27th minute before playing the ball wide to Deepak.

The latter delivered a measured low cross into the box, where Lalremruatfela showed excellent composure to guide a first-time, left-footed finish into the bottom corner and restore India’s lead.

Cameroon was awarded a penalty in the 31st minute after Nara Meitei Loushambam handled a shot from outside the box. Jenit, however, continued his impressive performance, saving Harouna Abdoulaye’s spot-kick in the 32nd minute to preserve India’s advantage.

India managed the closing moments well, holding its shape and seeing out the contest to secure a second successive victory.

India will next face Grenada later on Sunday, before concluding the qualification stage against Bahrain and Senegal on October 26.