The Indian women’s football team continued their scintillating run in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers with an emphatic 4-0 win over Timor-Leste on Sunday at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This back-to-back win places India firmly at the top of Group B, keeping their hopes alive for a place in the continental championship set to be held in Australia in March 2026.
Manisha Kalyan Leads the Charge
India’s star winger Manisha Kalyan was unstoppable, scoring a brilliant brace (12’, 80’) and setting the tempo for the game with her explosive pace and clinical finishing. She was a constant threat on the left flank, delivering one of her most complete performances in the blue jersey.
Her opening goal in the 12th minute was a perfect display of speed, skill, and precision. After a quick one-two with Anju Tamang, Manisha sprinted down the wing, beat her marker, and smashed a stunning left-footed shot past Timor-Leste goalkeeper Gorette Da Costa. The goal was a reward for India’s high-press strategy and attacking intent from the opening whistle.
Relentless Pressure and Missed Opportunities
India maintained possession and kept Timor-Leste pinned in their own half. In the 17th minute, Pyari Xaxa came close to doubling the lead, only to see her curling effort crash against the crossbar. Moments later, Soumya Guguloth also tested Da Costa, whose shot-stopping kept the scoreline respectable heading into halftime.
Despite numerous chances, India went into the break with just a 1-0 lead, but the dominance in midfield and the attacking fluidity suggested more goals were inevitable.
Second-Half Spark: Tamang and Serto Seal the Win
The second half began in similar fashion, with India in complete control. In the 58th minute, it was Anju Tamang who found herself in the right place at the right time. A teasing cross from Sanju caused confusion in the Timor-Leste box, and Da Costa’s misjudgment allowed Tamang to tap in from close range, giving India a well-deserved 2-0 cushion.
Then came the goal of the match. In the 80th minute, Tamang once again turned provider, delivering a smart pass to Manisha at the edge of the box. Manisha took a composed first touch before rifling the ball into the top corner — a finish that underlined her world-class talent and growing reputation in Asian football.
India’s fourth and final goal came in the 86th minute, courtesy of a fluid and selfless team move. Substitutes Lynda Kom Serto and Grace Dangmei combined expertly, slicing through the Timor-Leste defence. Grace drew the defenders in and calmly laid the ball off to Lynda, who finished with composure to seal a convincing 4-0 victory.
Top of Group B and Marching On
With this win, India now leads Group B with six points from two matches, ahead of Iraq and hosts Thailand, both of whom trail behind in the standings. This follows their record-breaking 13-0 triumph over Mongolia in their opening game — the team’s largest-ever win in an AFC Women’s Asian Cup fixture.
The momentum is firmly on India’s side as they prepare to take on Iraq on Wednesday in what could be the decider for group supremacy. With only the group winners moving forward to the 12-team final tournament, India’s intent, preparation, and form could not be more aligned.
High-Tempo Play and Tactical Brilliance
Coach Thomas Dennerby has clearly instilled a dynamic and aggressive system, with the Indian team pressing high, moving the ball quickly, and showing tremendous discipline in both attack and defence. The players have responded with sharp passing, well-timed runs, and a hunger that reflects in every minute of their play.
Key performers like Manisha Kalyan, Anju Tamang, and Soumya Guguloth have showcased consistency, while the depth on the bench, seen in Lynda and Grace’s impact, offers India tactical flexibility going forward.
Road to Australia 2026: What’s Next?
The Indian team’s campaign has begun on the strongest possible footing. But the path ahead still demands focus. The final match against Iraq will be crucial. A win will confirm India’s spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, bringing them closer to the dream of competing among Asia’s elite on Australian soil.
India’s journey so far has not only been about results but about growth, belief, and a team coming together with purpose. With two wins, 17 goals scored, and none conceded, they have already made a statement. Now, they must finish the job and take their place in the main tournament.
The next match — and the dream — awaits.
