India U-17 women’s team set to face Russia in three friendlies in Sochi

April 7, 2026

New Delhi: The India U17 women’s team is set to play three friendly matches against Russia in Sochi on April 11, 14, and 17, 2026 with Head coach Pamela Conti naming a 23-player squad for the fixtures. All three matches will be played at the Matsesta Football Centre in Sochi, and will kick off at 14:30 IST.

Team Arrives in Sochi After Strong Preparation

The Young Tigresses, preparing for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026, arrived in Sochi late Monday night. Last month, they travelled to Yangon to play two friendly matches against the hosts, winning both (2-0 and 3-2). After returning, Conti’s team continued their training camp in Bengaluru.

Impressive performance against Myanmar 

The team secured a confident 2–0 win over Myanmar in the first of two international friendlies. Pritika Barman starred with both goals, scoring just before halftime and again early in the second half. India displayed a composed and balanced performance, with solid defending led by Abhista Basnett and Elizabed Lakra, while goalkeeper Munni ensured a clean sheet.

After a competitive first half, India dominated the second half, controlling possession and tempo. They nearly added a third goal, hitting the crossbar, and comfortably closed out the match.

Asian Cup Schedule ahead

In the Asian Cup held in Suzhou, India will face Australia on May 2, Japan on May 5, and Lebanon on May 8 in Group B.

23 Member squad for Russia friendlies

India U17 women’s 23-member 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 and Nivetha Ramadoss Goalkeeping coach- Mario Aguiar Strength and conditioning coach- Amit Yadav