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What’s the story?
The U-16 Asian Federations Championship (AFC) is all set to kick off September 20, 2018 onwards. The fixtures are to be drawn in the host country, Malaysia on the April 26 (Wednesday), at 12.30 pm IST.
In case you didn’t know…
The Indian U-16 football team is amid their Spanish tour at present as part of the preparations for the continental tournament.
In the 2016 edition of the competition held in India, Iraq beat Iran on penalties in the final to secure their first title.
Heart of the matter
The Championship will see a total of sixteen teams be drawn to be pitted against one another. Defending champions, Iraq and hosts Malaysia along with North Korea and Iran are to be drawn from the same pot – pot No.1.
While the Indian team is placed in pot No. 3, beside Yemen, Australia and Thailand.
Follow all the LIVE updates from the AFC U16 Championship Draw here
The top four teams from the Championship will be seen participating in the 2019 edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup which is to be held in Peru, South America as representatives from the AFC.
What’s next?
The Indian U-16 football team performed seemingly well when pitted against the Spanish side, Valencia’s U-16 team – drawing the contest with no goals from either of the teams.
Having toured overseas, around Spain in order to be gain experience and exposure as a part of the training and preps ahead of the AFC Championship kicks off in Malaysia, the youngsters would be riding high on confidence, and will be determined to make a mark at the big stage.
Author’s take
The anticipation levels are rising as the U16 AFC Championship inches closer. India will have ample time to chalk up a game plan as the draws are revealed on Wednesday.
With such a huge opportunity at stake, the young cubs will be looking forward to making their nation proud and grasp the chance to represent AFC at the FIFA U17 World Cup stage.
