AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026: India’s Campaign Ends with 3-1 Defeat to Chinese Taipei

The Indian women’s football team concluded their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 3-1 loss to Chinese Taipei in their final Group C match at the Western Sydney Stadium in Australia on Tuesday.

India, making their first appearance in the tournament since 2003 , finished winless and bottom of the group , after earlier defeats: 2-1 against Vietnam in their opener and a heavy 11-0 loss to Japan . The result ended India’s hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals , which would have required a top-two finish or being among the two best third-placed teams. Semi-finalists in the tournament will earn qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

In the must-win clash, India, ranked 67th in FIFA women’s rankings , started with urgency, pressing high and attempting quick attacks down the flanks. However, it was Chinese Taipei who struck first. Capitalising on a defensive lapse by Sanju, Chen Jin-wen set up Su Yu-hsuan for the opening goal in the 12th minute.

Despite the early setback, India remained aggressive. Manisha Kalyan came close to an equaliser with a fierce long-range strike that rattled the crossbar. Her persistence paid off in the 39th minute when her free-kick from distance found the net, bringing India level.

Tragedy struck just before half-time when a handball by Pyari Xaxa in the penalty area resulted in a spot kick. Although Hsu Yi-yun ’s attempt hit the post, it rebounded off goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu into the goal, giving Chinese Taipei a 2-1 lead .

The second half remained open and entertaining, with both teams creating chances. Ultimately, Chen Yu-chin sealed the 3-1 victory in the 77th minute after a through ball from Wu Kai-ching left the Indian defence exposed.

Despite the loss, India showed moments of promise, particularly in attack, but defensive lapses and the unfortunate own goal proved costly. The campaign ends a long wait for India in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup , highlighting areas for growth as they aim to return stronger in future editions.