India’s campaign at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 came to an end after a 3–1 defeat against Chinese Taipei women’s national football team in their final Group C match on Tuesday at the Western Sydney Stadium in Australia.
Needing a win by at least two goals to keep their knockout hopes alive, the India women’s national football team began the match with urgency but ultimately fell short against a clinical Chinese Taipei side that capitalised on key defensive mistakes.
Chinese Taipei took the lead early in the 12th minute when Su Yu-hsuan finished into an empty net after a mix-up in India’s defence. A miscued clearance by Martina Thokchom allowed Chen Jin-wen to regain possession, and although Sanju attempted to recover by passing back to goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu, the ball fell kindly to Su, who tapped it home.
India responded positively and created several chances. Early pressure nearly paid off when Soumya Guguloth’s header from a Manisha Kalyan corner forced a save, while Pyari Xaxa caused confusion in the Chinese Taipei defence with the rebound. Moments later, Soumya again came close after being set up by Nirmala Devi, but her shot drifted just wide.
India finally found their breakthrough in the 39th minute. A free-kick from about 25 yards out saw Manisha Kalyan unleash a powerful strike that struck the underside of the crossbar. Initially cleared, the goal was later confirmed after a VAR review, bringing India level and reigniting hopes of qualification.
Goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu kept India in the contest with several important saves, including a brave stop in first-half stoppage time when a powerful effort from Chen Yu-chieh struck her in the face.
However, Chinese Taipei regained the lead just before halftime in dramatic fashion. Hsu Yi-yun struck a penalty against the woodwork, but the rebound ricocheted off Panthoi’s back and rolled over the line, giving the Mulan a 2–1 advantage heading into the break.
India pushed forward in the second half, with Manisha continuing to threaten from set pieces and open play. Rimpa Haldar was introduced to add attacking momentum, but the equaliser never arrived.
Instead, Chinese Taipei sealed the result in the 77th minute. Chen Yu-ting broke through behind India’s defence, rounded Panthoi and calmly finished into an empty net to make it 3–1. The play also resulted in a collision between Panthoi and captain Sweety Devi, with both players needing to be stretchered off.
India fought until the final whistle, creating late chances through Sanfida Nongrum and Manisha Kalyan, whose header struck the post in stoppage time. Despite the late pressure, Chinese Taipei held firm to secure the victory and progress, while India’s tournament journey came to a disappointing end.
