Baku: India continued their winning run at the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup 2026 with a 2-1 victory over Cameroon in their second Group K match in Baku on Sunday. An early own goal gave the Blue Colts the lead, while captain R Lalremruatfela scored the decisive goal in the second half.
The match was played at Hovsan Competition Complex Pitch 1B. India also had goalkeeper Jenit Ningthoujam to thank for the win as he made several important saves, including a penalty stop, to protect their advantage.
With this result, India became the only team in Group K to win both of their matches so far.
Early Own Goals Shape First Half
India made an immediate impact when Deepak Singh Arambam’s corner caused confusion inside the Cameroon penalty area in the first minute. Cameroon defender Fareil Ngobo attempted to clear the ball with a header but sent it into his own net, handing India an early lead.
Cameroon gradually found their rhythm and began putting pressure on the Indian defence. However, Bibiano Fernandes’ side stayed organised and made timely tackles to prevent their opponents from creating clear chances.
India came close to doubling their lead in the 14th minute. Deepak’s kick-in created another difficult moment for the Cameroon defence, but Lalremruatfela could not find the net after a last-ditch block denied his attempt.
Goalkeeper Jenit then stepped up with a series of crucial saves. He stopped a Cameroon free-kick in the 16th minute before keeping out Randy Ngome’s first-time effort a minute later. In the 18th minute, he denied Ndam Moctar in a one-on-one situation from a tight angle.
India continued to threaten at the other end, with Deepak firing into the side netting in the 19th minute. Cameroon, however, levelled the score in the 20th minute when Moctar’s cross from the right struck Muhammad Sohil Khan and deflected into the Indian net for an own goal.
Lalremruatfela Restores India’s Lead
India returned for the second half with renewed intent and introduced Ronandev Aheibam at the interval. The substitute made an immediate impact by winning possession in midfield in the 27th minute before passing the ball wide to Deepak.
Deepak then sent a low cross into the penalty area, where Lalremruatfela showed composure to guide a first-time left-footed finish into the bottom corner. The goal restored India’s lead and put them back in control of the contest.
Cameroon had an opportunity to equalise after being awarded a penalty in the 31st minute. The spot-kick was given after Nara Meitei Loushambam handled a shot from outside the box.
Jenit once again proved decisive. He saved Harouna Abdoulaye’s penalty in the 32nd minute, keeping India ahead at a crucial stage of the match.
India Hold Firm to Secure Second Straight Win
India continued to push forward in the closing stages rather than simply sit back and defend their lead. Ronandev tested Cameroon goalkeeper Sunny-Hansel Ndeh with a powerful strike from the right side of the box in the 33rd minute.
Two minutes later, Ndeh tipped Soumojit Sarkar’s free-kick over the crossbar to prevent India from extending their advantage.
The Blue Colts managed the final moments well, maintaining their shape and denying Cameroon another equaliser. The 2-1 victory gave India their second consecutive win in the tournament and strengthened their position in Group K.