India Qualifies for AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 With Historic Win Over Thailand
NETB24
Chiang Mai, — India’s women’s football team, the Blue Tigresses, created history on Saturday with a stunning 2–1 victory over Thailand in Chiang Mai, securing their place in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 to be held in Australia.
Midfielder Sangita Basfore was the star of the match, scoring both goals for India — the first a powerful long-range strike and the second a clinical header. Goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi also played a pivotal role, making several crucial saves to protect the lead.
The win marks a significant milestone for Indian women’s football, as the team has now qualified for the Asian Cup through the qualification route for the first time in 22 years.
Road to the World Cup
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, scheduled to take place from March 1 to 21 in Australia, serves as the final stage of Asian qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The top six teams from the tournament will qualify directly for the World Cup, while two more will enter the intercontinental playoffs.
To achieve a World Cup berth, the Indian team will need strong performances in both the group and knockout stages of the Asian Cup.
What’s Next for the Blue Tigresses
India will now look ahead to the group stage draw, which is scheduled for July 29, 2025 in Sydney. The team’s FIFA ranking at the time will determine their seeding for the tournament.
In preparation, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is expected to organize training camps and international friendlies in the last quarter of 2025 and early 2026. These matches will be key in helping the team adjust to the high level of competition expected at the Asian Cup.
Key Upcoming Dates
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July 29, 2025 – AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Group Stage Draw
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Late 2025 – Training camps and friendly matches
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March 1–21, 2026 – AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia
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Post-March 2026 – Final qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup based on performance
A Landmark Achievement
The victory over Thailand is being hailed as a landmark moment for Indian women’s football. It highlights the growth and resilience of the team and sets the stage for potentially greater achievements on the international stage.
With focused preparation and strong international exposure, India will head to Australia with hopes of not only making a mark at the continental level but also securing a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup — a long-cherished dream for Indian football.
