The Indian women’s football team, affectionately known as the Blue Tigresses, kicked off their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a performance for the ages. On June 23, 2025, at the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium in Thailand, India delivered a stunning 13-0 victory over Mongolia—setting a new benchmark for their biggest-ever win in the tournament’s history, qualifiers or final rounds included.
A Record-Breaking Display
From the opening whistle, India imposed their dominance. The Blue Tigresses, ranked 70th in the world, wasted no time asserting themselves against a Mongolian side ranked 126th. Sangita Basfore opened the scoring in the 8th minute, nodding in a cross from Soumya Guguloth. Soumya herself doubled the lead with a powerful volley off a Rimpa Haldar cross, her shot ricocheting off the post and in.
By the time the first half ended, India led 4-0. But the floodgates truly opened after the break. Pyari Xaxa, the star of the match, completed a remarkable five-goal haul, finding the net in the 29th, 45th, 46th, 52nd, and 55th minutes. Her clinical finishing and relentless movement left the Mongolian defense in disarray.
Goals Galore and Teamwork Supreme
The goals kept coming as India’s attacking play and teamwork shone through. Here’s a quick rundown of the scorers and their contributions:
- Sangita Basfore: Opened the scoring in the 8th minute.
- Soumya Guguloth: Scored twice (20th and 59th minutes), showcasing her versatility.
- Pyari Xaxa: Netted five goals, including a hat-trick and two more in quick succession after halftime.
- Rimpa Haldar: Added her name to the scoresheet in the 67th minute.
- Malavika: Scored in the 71st minute.
- Priyadharshini Selladurai: Bagged two goals (73rd and 86th minutes).
- Grace Dangmei: Converted a penalty in the 75th minute.
Coach Crispin Chettri took the opportunity to rotate his squad, giving valuable minutes to players like Purnima Kumari, Priyadharshini, Malavika, Ranjana Chanu, and goalkeeper Monalisha Devi. This not only showcased the team’s depth but also kept the momentum high throughout the match.
What This Win Means for India
This 13-0 triumph eclipses India’s previous best in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup—10-0 victories against Guam in 1997 and 2005. The result sends a strong message to the rest of Group B, which includes Thailand and Iraq, that India is a force to be reckoned with in these qualifiers.
The victory also highlights the progress of women’s football in India. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, the Blue Tigresses are building a reputation for attacking flair and resilience.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Historic Result: India’s biggest-ever win in AFC Women’s Asian Cup history.
- Team Effort: Nine different players were involved in the goals, showcasing squad depth.
- Pyari Xaxa’s Masterclass: Five goals from the Indian striker underlined her importance to the team.
- Group B Dynamics: The win puts India in a strong position ahead of matches against Timor-Leste, Thailand, and Iraq.
Up Next for the Blue Tigresses
India’s next match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers is against Timor-Leste on Sunday. If they top the group after the single-legged round-robin matches, they will book their place in the 12-team AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, to be held in Australia from March 1 to 26.
FAQs: India’s Record Win Over Mongolia
1. What was the final score of India vs. Mongolia in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifier?
India won 13-0 against Mongolia, marking their biggest-ever victory in the tournament’s history.
2. Who was the top scorer for India in the match?
Pyari Xaxa scored five goals, leading the charge for the Blue Tigresses.
3. How does this win compare to India’s previous best results in the competition?
This 13-0 win surpasses India’s previous record of 10-0 victories against Guam in 1997 and 2005.
4. Who are the other teams in India’s qualifying group?
India is grouped with Thailand, Iraq, and Timor-Leste in Group B of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers.
5. What is at stake for India in these qualifiers?
The group winner qualifies for the 12-team AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia.
Conclusion
India’s 13-0 demolition of Mongolia in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers is a landmark moment for women’s football in the country. It reflects the growing strength, ambition, and unity of the Blue Tigresses. As they prepare for their next challenges, fans can look forward to more exciting performances and, hopefully, a place in the finals down under.
