Indian Women's Team Falls Short Against Kenya in FIFA Series Semi-Final

Kenya Triumphs Over India in Semi-Final Clash

Nairobi, Kenya - On April 11, the Indian women's national football team faced a disappointing 0-2 defeat against the host nation, Kenya, during the semi-finals of the FIFA Series 2026 held at Nyayo National Stadium.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) reported that Martha Emedot opened the scoring for Kenya in the second minute, followed by Tereza Obunya's goal in the 55th minute.

Earlier in the day, Australia secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Malawi in the first semi-final. As a result, India will compete against Malawi for third place on April 15, while Kenya will challenge Australia in the final.

Throughout the match, Kenya showcased superior physicality and tactical awareness, dominating the Blue Tigresses from the start. The Harambee Starlets effectively utilized the pitch's width and maintained a strong physical presence, making it challenging for India to mount any significant offensive plays.

Kenya struck early when Fasila Omondi made a powerful run down the left side, delivering a threatening cross. Although Indian goalkeeper Shreya Hooda managed to touch the ball, she couldn't clear it, allowing Emedot to capitalize on the rebound and score.

Just five minutes later, Kenya nearly extended their lead, with Omondi again causing trouble on the left. Shalyne Opisa had a close-range opportunity, but Hooda made a crucial save to keep India in the game. Kenya continued to apply pressure, with Opisa's header narrowly missing the target shortly after.

India's situation worsened in the 14th minute when captain Pyari Xaxa suffered a head injury after a collision with Ruth Ingosi. She was taken to the hospital but remained conscious and is currently receiving medical care.

In the second half, Kenya maintained their composure and offensive pressure. Their efforts paid off in the 55th minute when Airin Madalina set up Tereza Obunyu with a precise pass. Obunyu made a decisive run between defenders and finished calmly past Hooda, doubling Kenya's lead.

Despite Crispin Chettri's attempts to reorganize the Blue Tigresses in the final minutes, Kenya's defensive discipline and physicality prevailed. A highlight for India came in the 87th minute when Jasoda Munda made her international debut, replacing Babina Devi Lisham in midfield.

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