Indian Women's Football Team Secures Spot in AFC Asian Cup 2026

India, 27 December 2025 — The Indian women's football team has successfully qualified for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 after a decisive victory over Hong Kong in their final qualifying match. The match, held at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on 26 December, saw India triumph with a 3-0 win, ensuring their place in the prestigious continental tournament.

Led by captain Aditi Chauhan, the Indian team dominated the game from the start. Manisha Kalyan opened the scoring in the 15th minute, followed by goals from Ratanbala Devi and Dangmei Grace in the second half. This victory marks a significant achievement for the team, highlighting their progress in the international arena.

The AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 will be hosted in Jordan, bringing together top teams from across Asia. India's qualification is seen as a critical step in the development of women's football in the country, providing the team with an opportunity to compete against higher-ranked opponents.

India's head coach, Thomas Dennerby, expressed pride in the team's performance, stating that the players have shown remarkable improvement and resilience throughout the qualifying campaign. The focus now shifts to preparing for the tournament, where India aims to make a substantial impact.

The tournament will serve as a platform for the Indian team to gain valuable experience and exposure at a higher level of competition, which is crucial for the growth of women's football in India. The team's qualification also boosts its chances for future international events, including the FIFA Women's World Cup.