India's Women's Football Team Secures Place in Olympic Qualifiers

India, 17 December 2025 — The Indian women's football team has advanced to the second round of the AFC Olympic Qualifiers after a decisive victory over Nepal. The match, held in Bhubaneswar on 16 December 2025, saw India triumph with a 3-1 scoreline.
The Indian team, under the leadership of coach Thomas Dennerby, showcased a strong performance with forward Bala Devi scoring twice, while Dangmei Grace added another goal to the tally. This win ensures India's progression to the next stage of the qualifiers, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the 2026 Paris Olympics.
The tournament is crucial as it offers a pathway for Asian teams to compete in the global event. India's victory against Nepal follows a series of successful matches in the qualifying round, reflecting the team's growing prowess on the Asian football scene.
Looking ahead, the Indian team will face tougher competition in the next round, where they will compete against higher-ranked teams from across Asia. The dates and venues for the second round are yet to be announced.
India's women's football team has been gaining momentum under Dennerby's guidance, with significant improvements in their tactical play and fitness levels. Their recent success marks a positive step for Indian women's football on the international stage.