India's chances of qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup are looking promising, according to recent statements from coaches and football experts. Factors such as strategic team building, the increasing number of participating teams in the World Cup, and the unique dynamics of women's football in Asia are contributing to this optimism.
Crispin Chettri, the head coach of the Indian women's team, expressed confidence in the team's potential to qualify for the 2031 World Cup. Speaking in June 2025, Chettri emphasized that the current squad is being built with the 2031 tournament in mind, explaining some controversial omissions of experienced players. He believes that Thailand, a higher-ranked team, is beatable, instilling a positive attitude within the team by encouraging them not to fear losing. Chettri also noted the importance of building a core group of players who can represent India for the next decade.
Echoing this sentiment, Ravi Kumar Punia, a coach deeply involved in grassroots football, is confident that India will qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup within the next 3-4 years. Punia highlighted India's qualification for the AFC Women's Asia Cup 2026 in Australia as a crucial step forward, attributing this progress to consistent performance in the Indian Women's League (IWL) and National Championship. He emphasized the increase in match opportunities through the IWL and senior nationals, providing players with a solid season of competitive play.
Bhaichung Bhutia, a former India captain, has also weighed in, stating that the Indian women's team has a better chance of playing in the FIFA World Cup than the men's team. Bhutia believes that the absence of major Gulf countries in women's football gives India a significant advantage. He pointed out that while the competition in Asia is intense, the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams increases India's chances. Bhutia stressed the importance of investing in grassroots programs and developing a strong generation of players to realize this potential.
Several factors contribute to the growing optimism surrounding the Indian women's team. The strategic emphasis on youth development, combined with experienced players, creates a balanced squad. The increased match time and competitive opportunities through leagues like the IWL are also crucial for player development. Moreover, the coaches are focused on fostering a positive and confident team environment.
Looking ahead, the upcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 is a significant milestone. Qualification for this tournament provides valuable experience and exposure for the team, serving as a stepping stone towards the ultimate goal of World Cup qualification. As India continues to invest in women's football and develop its talent pool, the dream of playing in the FIFA Women's World Cup is becoming increasingly realistic.
