The 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup commenced in Saudi Arabia on May 5, with China’s under-17 squad suffering a narrow 0-1 defeat to Indonesia in their opening Group B match. The loss denied them an opening victory in the tournament.
Sixteen teams are competing in the event, split into four groups. China, placed in Group B alongside Japan, Indonesia, and Qatar, aims to secure a spot in the U17 World Cup, with the top two from each group advancing directly. Before the tournament, the Chinese team emphasized that returning to the U17 World Cup—their last appearance being in 2005—remains their primary objective.
This Asian Cup marks the first major international test for China’s 2009-born players, a generation that has generated considerable optimism. In the qualification rounds last November, China swept through with five wins, scoring 42 goals and conceding none. More recently, in two February friendlies, the team defeated Indonesia twice on the road, 7-0 and 3-2.
In the match, China dominated possession with 60.8% control and fired 19 shots at goal, but struggled to convert opportunities. Indonesia’s resolute defense held firm, and with three minutes left in regulation time, Kenan Senjaya broke the deadlock with a solo run and finish. Earlier, in the 68th minute, an Indonesian header had been disallowed for handball.
In the other Group B fixture, Japan defeated Qatar 3-1. China’s next challenge will come against group favorites Japan on May 9. Since Qatar has already secured an automatic spot for the U17 World Cup as host, if they finish in the top two of Group B, the best third-placed team across all groups will also earn a World Cup berth, keeping China’s hopes alive for advancing.
