The Indian women’s football team will feature at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia from March 4, having qualified on merit by topping their group in Thailand last June. They defeated Timor-Leste, Iraq and Mongolia before sealing qualification with a 2-1 win over hosts Thailand, courtesy of a Sangita Basfore brace. The 21st edition of the continental tournament features 12 teams divided into three groups. India are placed in Group C alongside Japan, Vietnam and Chinese Taipei. The top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed sides will advance to the quarterfinals. Ranked 67 in the world, India faces a tough challenge against higher-ranked opponents, including two-time champions Japan and World Cup participants Vietnam. The tournament also doubles as a qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with four direct spots available and two more via inter-confederation playoffs. Know your opponents Vietnam Vietnam approach the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup seeking a second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification after making their historic debut in 2023. Their breakthrough came at …