India opened their AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Syria at the Do’stlik Stadium in Tashkent on Monday.

Singamayum Shami scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute, rolling the ball into the net from a cutback to give Mahesh Gawli’s side three points in Group B.

The Blue Colts appeared to have doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam converted Omang Dodum’s left-footed cross. However, the goal was ruled out for offside.

India Begin U-20 Asian Cup Qualifying Campaign With Win

The result gives India an important start in a group that also features hosts Uzbekistan and Bangladesh.

The top eight group winners and seven best runners-up will qualify for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2027 finals, which will be held in China next year.

For India, the victory keeps their hopes of returning to the continental tournament alive after a long absence.

India Face Uzbekistan Next

India’s next challenge will be considerably tougher as they take on hosts Uzbekistan in their second Group B fixture.

The Indian side are searching for their first appearance at the AFC U-20 Asian Cup since 2006, making the upcoming fixture particularly significant in their qualification campaign.

Uzbekistan and Bangladesh will meet in the other Group B fixture later on Monday at the same venue.