Indian women’s football is gearing up for a crucial summer as head coach Crispin Chettri has unveiled a 24-member squad for the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers. With the qualifiers set to take place in Thailand from June 23 to July 5, 2025, the Blue Tigresses are ready to chase continental glory and a coveted spot at the Asian Cup finals in Australia.
A New Chapter Under Crispin Chettri
Crispin Chettri, recently appointed as the head coach, has blended experience with youthful energy in his first major squad announcement. The selection reflects both the team’s ambition and the growing depth in Indian women’s football.
Key Highlights of the Squad Announcement:
Balanced Mix: The squad features seasoned campaigners alongside promising young talents.
Strategic Selection: Players were chosen based on recent performances, fitness, and tactical adaptability.
Focus on Versatility: Several players are capable of playing multiple positions, giving Chettri flexibility in his line-ups.
India’s Group and Qualifier Format
India has been drawn in Group B alongside Thailand, Mongolia, Timor Leste, and Iraq. All matches will be played in Thailand in a centralised, single round-robin format. Only the group winner will progress to the final tournament in Australia, making every game a must-win.
India’s Group B Opponents:
- Thailand (hosts)
- Mongolia
- Timor Leste
- Iraq
What’s at Stake in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers
The 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers are more than just a path to the continental championship. They also serve as the first stage for Asian qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Olympic football tournament. This adds extra significance to every match, as teams compete for a place on the biggest global stages.
Qualification Format Overview:
- 34 teams divided into eight groups (two groups of five, six groups of four).
- Group winners qualify for the final tournament in Australia.
- The final tournament will feature 12 teams, including automatic qualifiers (Australia, China, Japan, South Korea).
Squad Depth and Key Players to Watch
While the full list of 24 players includes both familiar and fresh faces, expect to see seasoned leaders anchoring the squad, supported by emerging stars eager to make their mark. The blend of experience and youth is designed to handle the pressure of high-stakes qualifiers.
Players to Watch:
- Veteran defenders providing stability at the back.
- Dynamic midfielders known for creativity and work rate.
- Young forwards with a knack for crucial goals.
Coach Chettri’s Vision
Speaking about the selection, Crispin Chettri emphasized the importance of unity and adaptability:
“We’ve picked a squad that can compete at the highest level and adapt to different situations. Our aim is clear—to qualify for the Asian Cup and make India proud.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the head coach of the Indian women’s team for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers?
Crispin Chettri is the head coach leading India into the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers.
2. When and where are the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers for India being held?
India will play in Group B, with all matches hosted in Thailand from June 23 to July 5, 2025.
3. Which teams are in India’s group for the qualifiers?
India’s Group B opponents are Thailand, Mongolia, Timor Leste, and Iraq.
4. How can India qualify for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 final tournament?
India must top their group in the qualifiers to secure a spot in the final tournament in Australia.
5. What is the significance of these qualifiers beyond the Asian Cup?
The qualifiers also serve as the first stage for Asian qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Olympic football tournament.
Conclusion
Crispin Chettri’s 24-member squad announcement marks a pivotal moment for Indian women’s football as the Blue Tigresses prepare for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers. With a challenging group and high stakes, the team is determined to seize this opportunity and take a big step toward continental and global success. Indian football fans will be watching with hope as the squad embarks on this exciting journey in Thailand.
