The Indian women’s football team kicked off their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualification campaign with a scintillating 13-0 victory over Mongolia on Monday, setting a bold tone for the tournament.
Star striker Pyari Xaxa dazzled with five goals, dominating proceedings at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai. Sangita Basfore opened the scoring in the 8th minute, but it was Xaxa’s clinical finishing and relentless attacking presence that truly dismantled the Mongolian defence.
This triumph marks India’s first win in over four months—their last success came during the Pink Ladies Cup against Jordan. Since then, a rough patch against Russia, South Korea, and Uzbekistan had pushed the team to their lowest-ever FIFA ranking of 70.
With Crispin Chhetri at the helm—who previously steered Odisha FC to domestic success—the Blue Tigresses appear revitalised. Chhetri’s tactical approach and player management were evident as India maintained aggressive momentum from kickoff to final whistle.
India’s next opponent in Group E is Timor Leste, followed by fixtures against Iraq and host nation Thailand. Only the group winner will advance to the finals in Australia.
If this performance is any indication, India is poised to roar louder than ever in their bid for continental glory.
