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Why India's qualification for 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup is historic
India defeated Thailand 2-1 to book their place in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Australia. It was a moment of pure joy and a historic one as tears rolled down and celebrations erupted after the final whistle blew at the stadium in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on 5 July.
The Indian women's football team has qualified for the Asian Cup for the first time ever on merit. In previous appearances in 2003 and 2022, India either got in directly or hosted the event. However, the Blue Tigresses have done it this time and there were no shortcuts.
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The star of the night was Sangita Basfore, who scored both goals to lead India to victory in a match that was basically a winner-takes-all clash. Thailand, playing at home and ranked 24 places above India in the FIFA rankings, were favourites. But the Indian girls had other plans.
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Why this win matters so much
This win wasn't a regular victory, just about three points. It meant India topped Group B of the AFC Women's Asian Cup qualifiers with 12 points from 4 games. It also ended Thailand's long-standing streak of qualifying for every Asian Cup since 2001.
India's road to this point had already seen some big wins, including a 13-0 victory against Mongolia, a 4-0 victory against Timor-Leste, and a 5-0 victory against Iraq. However, Thailand was the real test given their current standing on the global stage in the women's game, and India passed with flying colours.
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This is a huge moment for Indian women's football. After heartbreak in 2022, when they had to withdraw due to COVID-19 despite being hosts, the team has finally earned their place through performance. Coach Crispin Chhetri and his squad can now proudly say they belong among Asia's best.
With the 2026 AFC Asian Cup qualification secured, the next big goal will be the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027. India will look to qualify for the mega event as well.
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