India has officially announced its 24-member women’s football squad for the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers, set to take place in Thailand. The announcement marks a crucial step in India’s preparation for the tournament, which serves as Asia's premier competition in women’s football.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) released the squad list, which includes several well-known names from past international fixtures as well as new players who have shown promise in domestic and age-group competitions. This combination reflects the national team’s strategy to blend experience with emerging talent for better team dynamics and long-term development.
The squad is being led by head coach Maymol Rocky, who has overseen the team’s training camps and selection process. Speaking on the announcement, she emphasized the importance of consistency, fitness, and tactical awareness for success in the qualifiers. She noted that the team has been preparing rigorously with a focus on strengthening both defense and attacking transitions.
India is placed in a competitive qualifying group and will need to perform strongly to advance to the main tournament. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup serves as a direct qualification pathway for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, making the stakes high for every participating nation. India’s ambition is not only to qualify but also to gain valuable international experience and improve its global ranking.
Among the players named in the squad are key midfielders and forwards who have previously represented India in tournaments such as the SAFF Women’s Championship and Olympic qualifiers. The defense also features several players who were part of the 2022 AFC campaign. The return of senior players such as Ashalata Devi provides leadership and stability at the back, while young forwards like Manisha Kalyan are expected to bring pace and creativity to the attack.
The team will travel to Thailand shortly before the start of the qualifiers and will play a series of warm-up matches to adapt to local conditions. The AIFF has also confirmed that support staff and medical teams will accompany the squad to ensure proper player management and injury prevention.
India’s women's football program has received increased attention in recent years, with focused investment in youth development, coaching, and infrastructure. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers represent a vital opportunity for India to assess the progress of its national program against top Asian sides.
Fans in India can expect live updates and coverage through the AIFF’s official platforms, with match details and schedules to be announced closer to the tournament dates. The squad’s performance in Thailand will be closely watched as it could influence future team selections and the broader roadmap for women’s football in the country.
