India’s Women’s Football Team Aims for Glory at AFC Cup 2026

India’s women’s football team is poised to make history as they prepare for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. After a disappointing withdrawal from the tournament in 2022 due to a COVID-19 outbreak, the team is now stronger and more determined than ever. The Blue Tigresses, under the guidance of head coach Crispin Chettri, secured their place in the upcoming tournament by qualifying through the competitive route for the first time.

Reflecting on the challenges faced in 2022, defender Dalima Chhibber, who was part of that ill-fated campaign, expressed a renewed sense of motivation. “I’ve been playing for the country for almost a decade now, and our dream is to reach the FIFA World Cup,” she stated during a press conference in New Delhi. “COVID didn’t allow us to play at the Asian Cup in 2022. But this time we are headstrong, mentally tough, and looking forward to creating more history.”

The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. India had previously qualified for the tournament solely on the basis of being the host nation, but circumstances led to their withdrawal without a single match played. Now, with a solid foundation and a stronger squad, the women’s team aims to showcase their capabilities on an international stage.

New Coach Brings Fresh Perspectives

Chhibber highlighted the positive influence of coach Crispin Chettri, whose extensive experience in women’s football is seen as a valuable asset. He has previously managed Sethu FC and currently holds a dual role with Odisha FC and the national team. “I feel it is very nice to have Crispin Sir as part of our team. He brings a lot of knowledge and experience of working in women’s football,” she noted.

The team has shown promise with recent victories, including a notable 2-1 win against a strong Thai side. This performance serves as a testament to their growth and potential as they gear up for the challenges ahead in Australia.

Chhibber was in New Delhi as a Guest of Honour for the opening of the 64th edition of the Subroto Cup, which is set to commence on August 19, 2025. The tournament will contribute to the growing interest in women’s football in India, where sponsorship and investment have traditionally lagged behind other sports.

Optimism for the Future of Women’s Football

Despite the slow progress in sponsorship for women’s football, Chhibber remains hopeful. “We are seeing more and more sponsors coming. In the Subroto Cup as well, we’ve seen the sponsorship and investment increase,” she remarked. “As you know, football does not have a long history as it does in Europe or in Western countries. We’ll have to be patient; we’re moving ahead, and I’m sure in the future, with the kind of awareness that has been going around football with both boys and girls, you will see more investment coming in.”

The Indian women’s team is now on the verge of creating a new chapter in their football history. With a mix of experience, fresh talent, and a supportive coaching staff, they are set to take on the continent once again and aim for a place on the world stage. As they prepare for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, the anticipation is building, and the hope for a successful campaign is palpable among fans and players alike.