India's Women Footballers Dominate Timor-Leste in AFC Qualifiers

India's Impressive Victory in AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers

Chiang Mai, Thailand - On June 29, the Indian senior women's football team showcased their strength in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, achieving a resounding 4-0 win against Timor-Leste at the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium.

The Blue Tigresses took a 1-0 lead into halftime, with winger Manisha Kalyan netting two goals (12', 80'). Anju Tamang (58') and Lynda Kom Serto (86') also contributed to the scoreline in a match dominated by India, as reported by a press release from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

This victory places India at the top of Group B, accumulating six points from two matches, ahead of Iraq and Thailand, who are scheduled to compete later. While the top position in the five-team group is still contested, India has made a strong case with their impressive performances.

Following a record-breaking 13-0 win over Mongolia in their opening match, India entered this game with high spirits.

From the outset, India maintained their momentum, applying pressure and creating chances through quick passing and dynamic wing play. The first opportunity arose in the sixth minute when Tamang received a through ball, but Timor-Leste's goalkeeper Gorette Da Costa made a crucial save.

The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when a clever one-two between Manisha and Tamang unlocked Timor-Leste's defense. Tamang's precise pass allowed Manisha to sprint past her defender and unleash a powerful left-footed shot into the net.

This early goal established India's control over the match. The Blue Tigresses dominated possession and consistently sought openings. Pyari Xaxa nearly doubled the lead in the 17th minute, but her curling shot hit the post. Shortly after, Soumya Guguloth tested Da Costa again, who remained resolute under pressure.

Timor-Leste struggled to mount an attack, opting for a defensive strategy that failed to disrupt India's flow. The first half concluded with India firmly in charge, albeit with just one goal to show for their efforts.

India returned for the second half with renewed determination. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Sanju's cross from the left created confusion in the Timor-Leste box. Da Costa misjudged the ball, allowing Tamang to tap in from close range and extend India's lead.

Manisha then delivered a moment of brilliance in the 80th minute. After receiving a clever pass from Tamang at the edge of the box, she took a touch before firing a powerful shot past Da Costa, making it 3-0.

The fourth goal exemplified seamless teamwork. In the 86th minute, substitutes Lynda Kom and Grace Dangmei executed a beautiful play in midfield, with Grace driving into the box and selflessly passing to Lynda, who calmly finished the move.

The final whistle sparked celebrations on the Indian bench as the team not only secured another clean sheet but also raised their goal tally to 17 in just two matches.