The Indian senior women’s football team is making serious noise in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, and their latest performance has only reinforced their dominance. On Sunday, June 29, the Blue Tigresses recorded a comprehensive 4–0 victory over Timor-Leste at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai, Thailand, cementing their position at the top of Group B.
From explosive wing play to smart finishing, India delivered a clinical performance that underlined their growing stature in Asian football. With this win, they not only maintained a perfect unbeaten record in the qualifiers so far but also sent a clear message: India is here to compete.
A Dream Start: Manisha Kalyan Sparks Early Lead
It didn’t take long for India to find their rhythm. Just 12 minutes into the match, star winger Manisha Kalyan lit up the scoreboard. A clever one-two with Anju Tamang dismantled the Timor-Leste defense, giving Manisha space to charge down the left, cut inside, and unleash a thunderous left-footed strike into the net. It was a moment of pure individual brilliance and marked the tone for the rest of the match.
Earlier, in the 6th minute, Tamang almost opened the scoring herself but was denied by an alert Gorette Da Costa, Timor-Leste’s keeper. Still, the intent was clear — India came to dominate, and dominate they did.
Persistent Attacks and Missed Chances
India’s midfield trio kept the game under control, pushing Timor-Leste deep into their own half. Pyari Xaxa came close to doubling the lead in the 17th minute, her curling shot ricocheting off the post. Soumya Guguloth also threatened with a powerful attempt shortly after, but Da Costa stood strong.
Despite all the pressure, the first half ended with India holding a narrow 1–0 lead, a scoreline that didn’t quite reflect their dominance in possession and chances.
Second-Half Storm: India Pulls Away
The floodgates opened after the break. In the 58th minute, a dangerous cross from Sanju caused chaos in the box. Da Costa misjudged its flight, and Anju Tamang, always in the right place, tapped in from close range to double India’s advantage.
The standout moment came in the 80th minute. Tamang once again turned provider, slipping a smart pass to Manisha Kalyan, who took a composed first touch and smashed her second goal past the keeper — a goal that oozed class and confidence.
India sealed the match with a fourth goal in the 86th minute. Substitutes Grace Dangmei and Lynda Kom Serto linked up brilliantly in midfield. Grace drew defenders and squared it perfectly to Lynda, who coolly slotted home with time and space to spare. It was the kind of team goal that reflects both depth and chemistry.
Top of Group B and Building Momentum
With two wins from two matches — including a record-breaking 13–0 win over Mongolia in their opener — India now lead Group B with six points. Their goal difference is unmatched, and their attacking style has caught the attention of fans and experts across Asia.
Currently, they sit above both Iraq and Thailand, who also remain in contention. Only the top team from each group will qualify for the final 12-team tournament set to take place in Australia in March 2026. India is now perfectly positioned to take that spot, but there’s still work to be done.
Manisha, Tamang, Lynda: The Rising Stars
This victory once again highlighted the quality India now boasts in its squad. Manisha Kalyan, who plays club football for PAOK in Greece, continues to shine as the team’s attacking spearhead. With three goals in two games, she’s turning into a lethal finisher and a leader on the pitch.
Anju Tamang, often the engine behind India’s pressing game, showed composure and creativity, while Lynda Kom Serto’s late goal added further proof of the squad’s growing bench strength.
Coach Crispin Chhetri deserves credit for creating a team that balances experience with youth, flair with discipline, and hunger with belief.
What Lies Ahead
India’s next matches — against Iraq on July 2 and Thailand on July 5 — will determine their fate. The competition is fierce, but India’s momentum, tactical clarity, and goal-scoring confidence make them firm favorites.
But there’s no room for complacency. Iraq and Thailand will come prepared, and only a clean sweep will secure India’s spot in Australia. The Blue Tigresses must now carry this form into their final games and finish what they’ve started.
India’s journey in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers has been more than just a winning campaign — it’s a statement of intent. With back-to-back clean sheets, a blistering goal tally, and a unified squad, India is not just participating — they’re dominating.
The road to Australia is well within reach. And if the Blue Tigresses keep up this form, it’s a road they’re likely to travel with pride.
