Indian Women's Team Falls to Kenya in FIFA Series 2026 Semi-Final

In a challenging semi-final match of the FIFA Series 2026, the Indian women's national team was defeated 0-2 by Kenya. The match, held at Nairobi's Nyayo National Stadium, saw Kenya take an early lead and maintain pressure throughout. With this loss, India will now compete against Malawi for third place. The match also saw captain Pyari Xaxa suffer an injury, adding to India's challenges. Read on for a detailed account of the match and its key moments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 12, 2026, 00:03 IST

India's Setback in Semi-Final

The Indian women's national football team faced a disappointing defeat, losing 0-2 to the host nation, Kenya, during the semi-final of the FIFA Series 2026 held at Nairobi's Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday.

As reported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the goals for Kenya were scored by Martha Emedot in the 2nd minute and Tereza Obunya in the 55th minute. Earlier, Australia secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Malawi in the first semi-final. Consequently, India will compete against Malawi for third place on April 15, while Kenya will challenge Australia in the final.

Kenya's Early Dominance

From the beginning, Kenya showcased their strength both physically and tactically against the Blue Tigresses. The Harambee Starlets quickly took control of the match, effectively utilizing the width of the pitch and asserting their physical presence. India struggled to match the pace and intensity, failing to generate significant attacking opportunities.

Kenya made their mark early in the match, scoring just two minutes in. Fasila Omondi made a powerful run down the left side and delivered a threatening cross. Although Indian goalkeeper Shreya Hooda managed to touch the ball, she could not clear it effectively. Martha Emedot was quick to react to the rebound, slotting it home with her right foot to give Kenya an early lead.

Continued Pressure from Kenya

Just five minutes later, Kenya nearly extended their lead. Omondi again caused trouble on the left, sending in another precise cross. Shalyne Opisa attempted a close-range shot, but Shreya Hooda made a crucial save to keep India in the game.

Kenya maintained their offensive pressure, with Opisa having another chance shortly after when Leah Andiema provided a cross. However, her header went just wide of the goal.

Injury Concerns for India

India's situation worsened in the 14th minute when captain Pyari Xaxa suffered a head injury after a collision with Ruth Ingosi during an aerial challenge. She was taken off the field and transported to the hospital, remaining conscious and receiving medical care.

Second Half Developments

In the second half, Kenya continued to display composure and pressed forward. Their efforts bore fruit again in the 55th minute when Airin Madalina played a precise through ball to Tereza Obunya. Obunya made a clever run between Indian defenders and calmly finished past Shreya Hooda, doubling Kenya's lead.

Crispin Chettri tried to reorganize the Blue Tigresses in the closing stages, but Kenya's defensive discipline and physicality proved too strong. A highlight for India came in the 87th minute when Jasoda Munda made her international debut, replacing Babina Devi Lisham in midfield.

India's Squad

India's lineup included: Shreya Hooda (GK), Purnima Kumari, Astam Oraon, Shilky Devi Hemam, Rimpa Haldar (substituted by Karishma Shirvoikar at 70'), Pyari Xaxa (C) (substituted by Kaviya Pakkirisamy at 20', then by Malavika P at 55'), Sanfida Nongrum, Lynda Kom Serto (substituted by Priyadharshini Selladurai at 46'), Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Babina Devi Lisham (substituted by Jasoda Munda at 87'), and Aveka Singh (substituted by Sarita Yumnam at 87').