Jeddah, May 7 -- India began their AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 campaign with a 0-4 defeat at the hands of former semi-finalists Australia.

Placed in the truncated Group D after DPR Korea's withdrawal from the tournament, India's last group stage game will be against defending champions Uzbekistan on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

With the top two teams from each group set to progress to the quarter-finals, everything will be on the line when the Blue Colts face the side from Central Asia, a release said.

A win against Uzbekistan, followed by the latter dropping points against Australia on May 13, will see India make the last eight, a progression that will also secure them a spot in the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2026. Even a draw against ...