East Bengal FC head coach Anthony Andrews has taken up a new responsibility at the national level after being appointed as the assistant coach of the India U17 women’s national team by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Andrews will perform the role on a dual basis, continuing his association with East Bengal while contributing to the development of India’s young footballers. Joakim Alexandersson will continue as the head coach of the Young Tigresses.
The appointment comes after a remarkable period for Andrews with East Bengal’s women’s team. He recently guided the Moshal Girls to qualification for the group stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League 2026-27, following their impressive campaign in the Preliminary Stage in Malaysia.
Under Andrews, East Bengal have created history on the continental stage. The club became the first Indian women’s team to qualify for the AFC Women’s Champions League group stage in consecutive seasons, while last season they also became the first Indian women’s club to register a victory in the competition’s group stage. Andrews previously guided East Bengal to the SAFF Women’s Club Championship title in December.
Now turning his attention to the national team, Andrews has joined the India U17 women’s squad in Tashkent, where the Young Tigresses are scheduled to face Uzbekistan in international friendly matches on August 27 and 30.
The matches form part of India’s preparations for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers, which will be held in Malaysia from October 5 to 11. India have been placed in Group E alongside hosts Malaysia, Syria and Iraq.
With his recent success at East Bengal and growing experience in women’s football, Andrews’ addition to the India U17 coaching staff is expected to provide valuable expertise as the Young Tigresses prepare for their upcoming continental challenge.
Picture Courtesy: East Bengal Media
