India has been placed in Group D for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, alongside Uzbekistan, Australia, and DPR Korea. The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 5 to 22 in Saudi Arabia, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals and earning qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2026.
This marks India’s 10th qualification for the continental showpiece following a successful campaign in the qualifiers where they outperformed Iran, Lebanon, Palestine, and Chinese Taipei. India will kick off their Group D journey against Australia, followed by matches against Uzbekistan and DPR Korea.
Uzbekistan, the defending champions, secured automatic qualification. Australia, who were eliminated in the group stage in 2025, earned their spot for 2026 by defeating Jordan, Bhutan, and the Philippines in the qualifiers. DPR Korea, a two-time former champion, reached the semi-finals in 2025 and also qualified automatically for the current edition.
The draw has set up a competitive group for India, with strong opponents at the U17 level. Other notable groups include hosts Saudi Arabia in Group A with Tajikistan, Thailand, and Myanmar, Japan in Group B with Indonesia, China PR, and Qatar, and Korea Republic in Group C with Yemen, Vietnam, and the United Arab Emirates.
With a chance to secure a FIFA U17 World Cup berth, India will look to capitalize on their qualifying form and make a mark on the continental stage.
