India created history by entering the AFC U20 Women's Asia Cup for the first time in 20 years. Pooja scored the solitary goal in the 27th minute as India defeated hosts Myanmar 1-0 in their final Group D match at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon on Sunday.

India finished top of Group D with seven points to set up a historic progress to the continental event to be held in Thailand from April 1 to 18, 2026.

The last time India qualified for the event was in 2006, where the young Blue Tigresses were paired with a strong Japan, South Korea and North Korea in Group A.

India dominated the first half and had an early chance when Neha and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam combined. Su Su Khin came close to putting Myanmar ahead inside 10 minutes, but India survived.

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In the 27th minute, Pooja turned in a cross from Neha, which sailed over the Myanmar goalkeeper.

Myanmar came back stronger in the second half, but India defended well. Monalisha made a brilliant goal-line clearance to keep the clean sheet. Substitute Moe Pwint Phyu hit the post twice, the second time in the 90th minute, but India held on to the narrow lead.

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