India Women Boxers Capable of Winning Gold, Says Coach Santiago Nieva

India's women's boxing team heads into the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with high expectations, as head coach Santiago Nieva believes every member of the squad has the potential to win a gold medal. Backed by consistent success at major international tournaments, the team is aiming to improve on its medal tally from the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games while using the event as a key milestone in its preparations for the Asian Games and the 2027 Olympic qualification cycle.

The Commonwealth Games begin on July 23, with boxing action starting a day later on July 24. India enters the competition after an impressive run at the World Boxing Cup circuit, World Championships and Asian Championships, where its women boxers have regularly finished on the podium.

"We know we have a strong team. We have set a high bar with expectations to do our best," Nieva told PTI. "Most of our women boxers have won gold or silver in major tournaments over the past year. We know every one of them is capable of winning gold."

India won three medals in women's boxing at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, with Nikhat Zareen and Nitu Ghanghas securing gold, while Jaismine Lamboria claimed bronze. Nieva said the current squad has the depth to surpass that performance despite stiff competition from England, Ireland and Australia.

Leading India's campaign will be Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain, who is chasing the only major international medal missing from her collection. A former world champion and 2023 Asian Games silver medallist, Lovlina has been working on improving her offensive boxing, ring control and long-range attacking combinations after moving to the 75kg category.

Nieva said the Glasgow Games will serve as an important benchmark ahead of the Asian Games later this year and the Olympic qualification cycle beginning in early 2027. While medals remain the immediate target, he stressed that technical improvement, tactical execution and consistency against quality opponents will be equally important.

With a blend of experienced champions and promising young talent, India is regarded as one of the strongest contenders in women's boxing. The Glasgow Games offer an opportunity not only to surpass its previous Commonwealth medal tally but also to reinforce the country's credentials as a leading force in the sport ahead of the next Olympic cycle.