India Secures Historic AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualification with 2-1 Win Over Thailand
India's Historic Victory in Thailand
Chiang Mai [Thailand], July 6: On July 5, India achieved a remarkable 2-1 victory against the host nation, Thailand, securing their spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026.
As the final whistle echoed at the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium, emotions ran high, with Sangita Basfore visibly moved, according to a statement from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
This victory marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time the Blue Tigresses have successfully qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Previously, India last participated in the tournament in 2003, before the introduction of qualifiers, and had to withdraw from the 2022 edition due to a COVID-19 outbreak.
Basfore played a pivotal role in this match, scoring both goals for India in the 28th and 74th minutes, leading the team to triumph in a crucial Group B clash. Thailand's Chatchawan Rodthong managed to equalize briefly in the second half, but Basfore's second goal sealed the win for India.
Thailand started strong, dominating possession and creating early chances. In the 15th minute, Pattaranan Aupachai's cross found Jiraporn Mongkoldee, whose shot was saved by Indian goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu. Mongkoldee came close again, hitting the post just two minutes later.
Despite being under pressure, India displayed resilience and found their footing. In the 28th minute, Anju Tamang set up Basfore, who unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net, igniting celebrations among the Indian players.
India nearly extended their lead shortly after, but Pyari Xaxa's attempt was thwarted by Thailand's goalkeeper Tiffany Sornpao.
Thailand responded with urgency, and Mongkoldee attempted a lob from distance, but Panthoi was quick to recover.
The second half began poorly for India, as Thailand equalized just two minutes in. A cross from Rodthong, intended for Saowalak Pengngam, took a fortunate turn and found the net, marking India's first goal conceded in the qualifiers.
Thailand continued to press, hitting the woodwork again in the 56th minute, but India remained composed. In the 74th minute, Nirmala Devi's corner kick found Shilky Devi Hemam, who assisted Basfore for the decisive goal.
As Thailand pushed for another equalizer, India held firm defensively, maintaining their lead until the final whistle. This victory not only secured India's place in the upcoming Asian Cup but also marked their first win against Thailand, ending the latter's qualification streak.
The significance of this achievement was profound for the players and coaching staff, representing years of hard work and dedication. With aspirations now set on qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027, the journey continues for the Blue Tigresses.