Inside India’s U-17 Asian Cup Qualification
When the final whistle went at Ahmedabad’s EKA Arena on Sunday night, Bibiano Fernandes didn’t celebrate right away. He didn’t roar into the sky or sprint down the touchline. Instead, he stood still, momentarily overwhelmed, letting the noise flood around him. India had just beaten Iran, the group favourites, the technical gold standard, the team that needed only a draw and sealed qualification for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026. It will be India’s 10th appearance at the tournament, and Bibiano’s fourth qualification as head coach. And yet, for a man who has lived through the pressure, the heartbreak, the rebuilding, and the constant churn of young football talent, this night felt different. Speaking to the media over a video call, Bibiano unpacked the journey with characteristic clarity and humility. “I never felt like that before,” Bibiano admitted, his voice softening. “Beating Iran in a home game, in this kind of situation… I was really, really proud of the boys, proud of my staff, and everyone in the stadium who supported us.” Even three days …
