Indian Women's Football Team Secures Crucial Win in Olympic Qualifiers

India, 16 December 2025 — The Indian women's football team recorded a significant victory against Vietnam in the AFC Olympic Qualifiers, enhancing their prospects for qualification to the Paris 2024 Olympics. The match, held in Bhubaneswar on 15 December, ended with a 2-1 scoreline in favor of India.

Sabitra Bhandari opened the scoring for India with a well-placed strike in the 22nd minute. Vietnam equalized shortly after through Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung's free-kick in the 35th minute. However, Indian captain Aditi Chauhan's decisive goal in the 76th minute secured the win.

This victory places India in a favorable position in Group C of the qualifiers, with two more matches to be played. The team's performance has been crucial, given the competitive nature of the qualification process.

The win not only boosts India’s chances of making it to the Olympics but also highlights the growing strength and potential of women's football in the country. The next match is scheduled against Uzbekistan, which will be pivotal in determining India's qualification hopes.

The Indian squad, led by coach Thomas Dennerby, has been focusing on rigorous training and strategic improvements, which have been reflected in their recent performances.