The India U17 men’s national team went down 0-1 to Türkiye in the first of two international friendlies at the Emirhan Sport Center in Manavgat, Antalya, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
The closely contested match served as an important preparatory fixture for the Blue Colts ahead of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026. The hosts struck early and held on, but the young Indian side showed resilience and flashes of attacking promise against a traditionally strong European opponent.
Early Penalty Separates the Sides
Türkiye took the lead in the 12th minute after Lawmsangzuala was adjudged to have brought down Eymen Erdoğan inside the penalty area. The winger, who is part of German club 1. FC Köln’s youth setup, stepped up to take the spot kick himself and calmly slotted it into the bottom left corner, giving the home side an early advantage.
The goal forced India to reorganise quickly. While Türkiye enjoyed territorial control in the opening exchanges, the Blue Colts gradually settled into the game and began creating opportunities of their own.
India’s best chance of the first half came in the 26th minute. Md Aimaan Bin delivered a high cross into the box, and Denny Singh Wangkhem rose well to meet it. His header, however, drifted inches wide of the far post, narrowly missing what would have been a deserved equaliser.
As the half progressed, India grew more confident in possession. In the 37th minute, captain Dallalmuon Gangte attempted a 20-yard free-kick that sailed just over the crossbar, underlining India’s increasing attacking intent. Despite the improved rhythm, Türkiye carried their slender 1-0 lead into the break.
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After the interval, India made adjustments and looked sharper in transition. Heeranganba Seram was replaced by Rahan Ahmed at halftime, while Lesvin Rebelo and Diamond Singh Thokchom were introduced later to inject fresh energy into the attack. In the 67th minute, captain Gangte attempted to test Turkish goalkeeper Sadullah Kabakuşak from long range. His left-footed strike from around 25 yards was well directed but lacked the necessary placement, landing safely in the keeper’s gloves.
India continued to press in search of an equaliser but were met with disciplined Turkish defending. The match could have been put beyond reach in the 85th minute when Türkiye were awarded their second penalty of the evening. Korou Meitei Konthoujam was penalised for a challenge on Alaettin Ekici inside the box.
However, the hosts failed to capitalise. Ekici blazed his penalty effort over the crossbar, allowing India to stay within striking distance in the closing minutes. Despite a late push, the Blue Colts were unable to find the breakthrough, and the match ended 1-0 in favour of Türkiye.
Valuable Preparation Ahead of AFC U17 Asian Cup
The Antalya friendlies form a key part of India’s preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes has taken a 24-member squad to Türkiye, aiming to expose the players to high-intensity European opposition before the continental tournament. The draw for the Asian Cup will be held on February 12.
Earlier this month, India hosted Tajikistan U17 in Margao, recording a 4-2 victory in the first match and a goalless draw in the second. The competitive fixtures against Türkiye represent a step up in opposition quality, providing the squad with critical experience against physically and tactically robust teams.
Türkiye themselves are preparing for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship 2026 and the FIFA U17 World Cup 2026 qualifiers. A two-time UEFA European U17 champion and semi-finalist at the 2005 FIFA U17 World Cup, Türkiye carry strong youth football pedigree.
For India, the narrow defeat will serve as both a learning experience and a confidence booster. The team demonstrated defensive organisation, attacking potential, and mental resilience despite conceding early. The two sides will meet again on February 12 at the same venue, with kickoff scheduled for 14:30 IST.
The second encounter offers the Blue Colts an immediate opportunity to respond, refine their approach, and continue building momentum ahead of the AFC U17 Asian Cup.
