Young Tigresses Gear Up for AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Thailand

The Indian U20 women's football team, known as the Young Tigresses, is gearing up for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Thailand. After a 20-year absence from the tournament, they will face Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei in the group stage. With a well-prepared squad and a rigorous training regimen, the team aims to advance to the quarter-finals and secure a spot in the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Poland. The excitement builds as they embark on this significant journey in women's football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 30, 2026, 23:50 IST

Squad Announcement for the Tournament

Joakim Alexandersson, the head coach of the Indian U20 women's football team, has officially announced the 23-member squad for the upcoming AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup in Thailand, scheduled for 2026.

Tournament Overview and Qualification Journey

After a 20-year hiatus, India has qualified for this prestigious tournament. Their first match is set against Japan on April 2 at Thammasat Stadium, followed by encounters with Australia on April 5 and Chinese Taipei on April 8, both at Pathum Thani Stadium. According to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams across all groups, will advance to the quarter-finals. The four winners of these quarter-finals will secure spots in the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Poland in 2026.

Preparation for the Tournament

The Young Tigresses arrived in Bangkok on March 20, allowing them 13 days to adapt to the local environment. The traveling squad initially included 24 players, but defender Alka Indwar has been released as the coach finalized the roster for the tournament.

The team commenced their training camp in Bengaluru in January, following the conclusion of the first phase of the Indian Women's League (IWL). They then spent a month in Sweden, where they played five friendly matches against senior teams from various Swedish clubs. After returning from Sweden, the Young Tigresses continued their training in Kolkata before heading to Thailand.

Complete Roster for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Thailand 2026

Goalkeepers: Monalisha Devi Moirangthem, Nandini, Ribansi Jamu.

Defenders: Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Nishima Kumari, Remi Thokchom, Ruchi Yadav, Sahena TH, Shubhangi Singh, Thoibisana Chanu Toijam.

Midfielders: Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam, Arina Devi Nameirakpam, Bhumika Devi Khumukcham, Monisha Singha, Neha, Pooja, Shruti Kumari.

Forwards: Babita Kumari, Deepika Pal, Lhingdeikim, Shilji Shaji, Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, Sulanjana Raul.

Coaching Team

Head Coach: Joakim Alexandersson

Assistant Coach: Paromita Sit

Goalkeeping Coach: Hameed KK

Match Schedule for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Thailand 2026

April 2, 18:30 IST: Japan vs India (Thammasat Stadium, Pathum Thani)

April 5, 14:30 IST: India vs Australia (Pathum Thani Stadium, Pathum Thani)

April 8, 14:30 IST: Chinese Taipei vs India (Pathum Thani Stadium, Pathum Thani)

Live streaming will be available on FanCode.