India stunned as Kenya seal 2- 0 win in FIFA Series semifinal

India’s women’s football team endured a tough outing as they went down 0–2 to Kenya in the semifinal of the FIFA Series 2026 in Nairobi , struggling to cope with the hosts’ pace, intensity, and physical dominance.

The match began on a shocking note for India as Kenya struck in just the 2nd minute . Fasila Omondi made a strong run down the left flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Indian goalkeeper Shreya Hooda managed a touch but failed to clear it properly, allowing Martha Emedot to react quickest and slot home from close range for an early lead.

From there, Kenya continued to apply relentless pressure, using width effectively and keeping India pinned back. The visitors struggled to build attacks and rarely threatened in the final third. Kenya nearly doubled their lead soon after, but Shreya Hooda produced a vital save to deny Shalyne Opisa from point-blank range.

India suffered a major setback in the 14th minute when captain Pyari Xaxa sustained a head injury following an aerial collision with Ruth Ingosi . She was taken to hospital and, according to team officials, remained conscious and under medical supervision.

The hosts maintained control after the break and finally extended their lead in the 55th minute . A perfectly weighted through ball from Airin Madalina released Tereza Obunya , who made a sharp run behind the Indian defence and calmly finished past Shreya Hooda to make it 2–0 .

Despite tactical changes from head coach Crispin Chettri , India could not find a way back as Kenya stayed disciplined, organized, and physically superior till the final whistle.

India will now face Malawi in the third-place playoff, while Kenya advance to meet Australia in the final.