AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers: India Face Tough Test Against Thailand in Do-or-Die Clash

The Indian women’s football team will need to produce a spirited and near-flawless performance when they face Thailand on Saturday in a must-win encounter in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. A victory will keep their hopes alive for a place in the 2026 edition of the continental tournament in Australia — and potentially a step closer to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

India, ranked significantly lower than Thailand, face a daunting challenge. The Blue Tigresses have never beaten Thailand and have never qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup through the qualifiers route. Their last appearance in the tournament came in 2003, before the introduction of qualifiers. They participated as hosts in 2022 but were forced to withdraw midway due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the squad.

Head coach Maymol Rocky has instilled a fighting spirit in the squad, which has won three matches in the group stage so far. However, the Thai team, with its superior experience and ranking, remains a formidable opponent. A win against them would be a historic breakthrough for Indian women’s football and offer a morale boost as the team eyes long-term goals, including qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“We respect Thailand, but we are here to fight and make history,” said a confident Indian team official ahead of the crucial clash.

A win will not only propel India closer to a rare continental qualification but also inspire a growing generation of young female footballers back home, as the sport gains traction among women in India. The upcoming match is set to be a defining moment in the team’s journey and a test of their resilience and preparation over the past two months of rigorous training.