India plays goalless draw with UAE before AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers

Players of India (in orange) and UAE in action in first of their two friendlies in Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. | Photo Credit: X/@UAEFNT

India’s under-17 national men’s team played out a goalless draw against its counterpart from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a friendly match at the Emirates Football Club Stadium in Ras Al Khaimah on Sunday.

It was the first of two friendlies the Blue Colts are scheduled to play before they head to Malaysia for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. Under coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo, India is looking to qualify for the Asian Cup for the second time in a row, having done so under Bibiano Fernandes the last time.

India will face the UAE again in three days, at the Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Stadium in Ras Al Khaimah.

India has been drawn in Group E alongside hosts Malaysia, Palestine, Singapore and Guam in the qualifiers. It will begin its campaign against Singapore, before facing Guam, Palestine and Malaysia. Only the group winners will qualify for the final tournament.

India’s 23-player squad for the friendlies vs UAE:

Goalkeepers: Arnav Pandhare, Maroof Shafi, Newtan Irengbam.

Defenders: Jinesh Thoudam, Lawmsangzuala, Leo Thongbam, Malem Laishram, Malsawmtluanga, Sailex Oinam, Maldino Singh Yumnam, Zoramdinthara.

Midfielders: Dallalmuon Gangte, Henthoiba Keisam, David Mangang Irom, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, R Lawmsangzuala, Thiyam Sambay.

Forwards: Hrishikesh Charan Manavathi, Kamgouhao Doungel, Md Sahir Ali, Raj Singh Wahengbam, Ristik Maity, Felix Meitei Saikhom.