India clinch third place with gritty 3-2 win over Malawi in FIFA series

India’s women’s football team signed off from the FIFA Series 2026 in Kenya with a spirited 3-2 victory over Malawi , clinching third place in a match that swung dramatically until the very end.

Played at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi , the contest showcased India’s attacking intent and resilience, with Astam Oraon, Aveka Singh, and Priyadharshini Selladurai finding the net in a hard-fought encounter.

India struck first in the 18th minute through Astam Oraon , who capitalised on a defensive lapse to register her maiden international goal . The early advantage, however, did little to settle the nerves as Malawi responded with increasing control in midfield. Their persistence paid off when Khumalo Ireen curled in a stunning free-kick in the 42nd minute to level the scores.

Just when the momentum seemed to shift, India responded with precision. In stoppage time of the first half, a well-worked move down the flank ended with Aveka Singh calmly volleying home , restoring India’s lead before the break.

The second half followed a similar script of intensity and pressure. Malawi, refusing to back down, equalised once again in the 60th minute through Henry Deborah , who reacted sharply inside the box after a corner kick.

With both teams pushing for a winner, the game turned scrappy and tense in the closing stages. As the match edged towards a penalty shootout, India found their moment of brilliance. In the 84th minute, substitute Priyadharshini Selladurai produced a decisive strike, cutting inside and placing the ball into the bottom corner with clinical precision.

The victory not only secured third place but also offered a strong finish after India’s semifinal defeat to hosts Kenya. The team’s ability to fight back under pressure and deliver in crucial moments will be seen as a positive takeaway from the tournament.

As Kenya prepare to face Australia in the final, India depart with renewed confidence and a performance that underlined both promise and resilience on the international stage.