The Indian senior women's team showcased a dominant performance, securing a 4-0 victory against Timor-Leste in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai, Thailand on Sunday. This win propels the Blue Tigresses to the top of Group B with six points from two matches.
India's head coach, Crispin Chettri, had anticipated a more organized opposition in Timor-Leste compared to Mongolia, whom India defeated 13-0 in their opening match. Chettri noted Timor-Leste's defensive structure and preference for counter-attacks.
The match began with India applying high pressure, reminiscent of their game against Mongolia. Anju Tamang had an early opportunity in the 6th minute, but Timor-Leste's goalkeeper, Gorette Da Costa, made a good save. Manisha Kalyan broke the deadlock in the 12th minute with a powerful left-footed strike, following a neat exchange with Anju Tamang. The early goal allowed India to control the tempo, dominate possession and constantly seek openings.
After the halftime break, Anju Tamang doubled India's lead in the 58th minute, tapping in a cross from Sanju. Manisha Kalyan scored her second goal of the match in the 80th minute, further solidifying India's dominance. Lynda Kom Serto added another goal in the 86th minute, her first of the tournament, after receiving a cut-back from Malavika.
With this win, India sits atop Group B, followed by Iraq. India is set to face Iraq on July 2nd and Thailand on July 5th. Only the group winners will secure qualification for the tournament in Australia next year.