India U-17 Women Set for Russia Friendlies in Sochi

New Delhi - The India U-17 women’s football team is all set to take on Russia in a series of three friendly matches in Sochi on April 11, 14, and 17, 2026. Head coach Pamela Conti has named a 23-member squad for the tour as the team steps up preparations for the upcoming AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.

All three matches will be played at the Matsesta Football Centre in Sochi, with kick-off scheduled at 2:30 PM IST.

The Young Tigresses arrived in Sochi late Monday night after a productive training phase. Just last month, they travelled to Yangon, where they impressed with two wins over the hosts, Myanmar (2-0 and 3-2). Following that tour, the squad resumed training in Bengaluru to fine-tune their game.

In their first match against Myanmar, India delivered a confident 2-0 victory. Pritika Barman was the standout performer, scoring both goals—one just before halftime and another early in the second half. The team showed strong defensive organization, with Abhista Basnett and Elizabed Lakra leading at the back, while goalkeeper Munni kept a clean sheet.

After a closely contested first half, India took control in the second, dominating possession and dictating the tempo. They even came close to extending their lead, striking the crossbar, before comfortably sealing the win.

Looking ahead, India will compete in the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in Suzhou, where they are placed in Group B alongside Australia, Japan, and Lebanon. Their fixtures are scheduled for May 2, 5, and 8 respectively.

India U-17 Women’s Squad for Russia Friendlies

Goalkeepers: Munni, Shelna Maria Sajit, Tamphasana Devi Konjengbam
Defenders: Alena Devi Sarangthem, Alisha Lyngdoh, Divyani Linda, Elizabed Lakra, Joyshini Chanu Huidrom, Ritu Badaik, Taniya Devi Tonambam
Midfielders: Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi Senjam, Bonifilia Shullai, Julan Nongmaithem, Pritika Barman, Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Thandamoni Baskey
Forwards: Anushka Kumari, Anwita Raghuraman, Joya, Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam, Pearl Fernandes, Valaina Fernandes

Coaching Staff

• Head Coach: Pamela Conti
• Assistant Coaches: Vincenzo Conti, Nivetha Ramadoss
• Goalkeeping Coach: Mario Aguiar
• Strength & Conditioning Coach: Amit Yadav

The upcoming friendlies in Russia will offer valuable international exposure as the team builds momentum ahead of a crucial continental tournament.