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🇮🇳 India’s Women’s Football Team Qualifies for AFC Asian Cup 2026 — Eyes Now on FIFA World Cup
A thrilling 2-1 win over Thailand marks a historic breakthrough and revives hopes of World Cup debut
Chiang Mai / New Delhi, July 7, 2025 — History was made in Chiang Mai as the Indian women’s football team—fondly called the Blue Tigresses—secured their place in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 after a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Thailand. This win not only sealed top spot in Group B of the qualifiers, but also marked the first time India has qualified for the tournament through the regular qualification path since 2003.
This moment is being hailed as a turning point for Indian women’s football, especially after years of near-misses, limited international exposure, and institutional setbacks. The triumph against Thailand—a team ranked significantly higher than India—has also reignited hope that the Blue Tigresses could soon achieve what has long felt out of reach: qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, possibly as early as the 2027 edition.
🔥 A Victory Beyond the Scoreboard
The final group-stage match against Thailand was always going to be the most challenging. Heading into the game, India had dominated their previous matches—routing Mongolia 13–0, Timor-Leste 4–0, and Iraq 5–0—without conceding a single goal. Thailand, however, was seen as a formidable opponent with years of international experience.
But India rose to the occasion.
Midfielder Sangita Basfore was the star of the night. She scored the opening goal in the 28th minute, converting a well-built attack that caught Thailand off-guard. After Thailand equalized early in the second half, Basfore struck again in the 74th minute with a calm, composed finish that ultimately proved to be the match-winner.
India’s defense, led by experienced centre-backs and goalkeeper Shreya Hooda, held firm against a late Thai onslaught. When the final whistle blew, it wasn’t just a 2–1 win—it was a statement.
🇮🇳 A New Era Under Coach Crispin Chettri
Much of the credit for this milestone goes to head coach Crispin Chettri, who took charge in 2024 and brought a new tactical vision to the team. Known for his disciplined yet attack-minded coaching style, Chettri focused on building a technically solid, fast-moving side with sharp transitions and fluid midfield play.
This strategy paid off, as India not only won all four qualifiers, but also scored 24 goals in total while conceding only once—a record that stunned many in the Asian footballing community.
“We wanted to prove that India belongs on this stage—not just to participate, but to compete,” Chettri said after the match. “The girls played their hearts out. This is a team that has belief and purpose.”
⚽ Why This Qualification Matters So Much
India hosted the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2022 but had to withdraw mid-tournament due to COVID-19 infections within the squad. That exit was a major setback. Since then, the AIFF (All India Football Federation) has worked to rebuild, invest in youth development, and give more international match experience to the women’s team.
This successful qualification through merit reflects not only the talent of the players, but also a growing professionalism in India’s women’s football ecosystem.
And there’s more at stake. The AFC Asian Cup serves as the direct qualification path to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. By reaching the final tournament in Australia next year, India has taken the crucial first step toward its ultimate dream—playing on the world’s biggest football stage.
🧭 What’s Next for the Blue Tigresses
With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup finals set to be hosted in Australia in early 2026, the Indian team will now shift focus to preparation. The AIFF is expected to schedule friendly matches with stronger opponents, invest in player fitness and sports science, and possibly hold international camps.
The next 12 months will be crucial—not only to perform well in the Asian Cup, but to earn a place among the teams qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, likely to be co-hosted by Brazil or a European nation.
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