MARGAO
The football fraternity is celebrating India’s remarkable achievement”and with good reason. The India U-17 team has qualified for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2025, a milestone that reflects months of hard work, discipline, and belief. Head Coach Bibiano Fernandes is at the centre of the praise, and Goa is beaming with pride as one of its own continues to script history on the national stage.
Fernandes, the head coach of the Indian U-17 side, has guided the team to a historic qualification, further cementing his reputation as one of India’s most impactful youth coaches. The current squad features one Goan player, forward Lesvin Rebello, highlighting the state’s rising influence in Indian football.
India sealed their Asian Cup berth with a thrilling 2“1 victory over Iran, a traditional powerhouse in Asian football. Bibiano’s boys needed a win to advance, whereas Iran required only a draw”but the young Indians rose to the challenge in spectacular fashion. India now becomes the fourth national team to qualify for an Asian-level competition next year, joining the senior women’s team, the U-20 women’s team, and the U-17 women’s team.
This achievement adds to a growing list of successes under Fernandes, including the SAFF U-19 Championship title. His emphasis on player development and his winning mentality have clearly shaped a confident and cohesive unit.
“Very proud moment for India. Hats off to all the boys, Bibiano, the coaching staff, and the entire team who worked so hard and truly believed in themselves,” said Adv. Valanka Alemao, CEO of Churchill Brothers FC, who has also created history as the first Indian woman appointed to the FIFA Women’s Football Development Committee (2025“2029).
Gokulam Kerala FC’s Technical Director Derrick Pereira echoed similar sentiments: “It’s a great achievement for Team India and Coach Bibiano and his staff. Congratulations to all! At least we have something to cheer about when so much negativity surrounds Indian football.”
Former India defender Franky Baretto added: “Proud moment for Indian football. The boys showed character, discipline, and heart. This is a big step forward for the future of Indian football.”
Lector Mascarenhas, General Secretary of Dempo SC and former India midfielder, praised the significance of the win: “Iran is a powerhouse in Asian football. To beat them and qualify is a great achievement. Competing at this age group is vital for exposure and growth as players transition to the senior level. Well done, India.”
The historic weight of the achievement was also acknowledged by Shabir Ali, Dhyan Chand Awardee: “India last won a trophy at the Asian level in 1974 (joint champions with Iran). Great achievement by Bibiano Fernandes”no other coach may come close in the near future.”
Former India striker and national referee Francis D’Souza highlighted the team’s grit:“It’s a historic moment. Bibiano and his boys deserve immense credit, especially after losing the previous match. The victory is even more commendable.”
Real Kashmir FC head coach and former India junior coach Ishaq Ahmed added: “A fantastic win. The players gave more than 100 percent”a tough fight and a well-earned qualification.”
Praise also came from Kusum Bi Shaikh, assistant coach of the Philippines U-17 women’s team: “All credit goes to Bibiano sir. His scouting is precise and his selection fair. The players perform with commitment and discipline”his impact on Indian youth football is outstanding.”
Goa Football Association Senior Vice President Anthony Pango also applauded the team’s remarkable success.
