India’s journey in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 concluded with a 1-3 defeat against Chinese Taipei in their final Group C match at the Western Sydney Stadium on March 10. Chinese Taipei entered halftime with a 2-1 advantage after taking an early lead through Su Yu-hsuan in the 12th minute. Manisha Kalyan equalized for India shortly before halftime, scoring in the 39th minute. However, just before the break, Hsu Yi-yun restored Chinese Taipei’s lead in the injury time of the first half. The final goal from Chen Yu-ting in the 77th minute sealed India’s fate in the tournament.

Key Moments of the Match

India’s head coach, Amelia Valverde, made critical adjustments to her starting lineup, introducing Shilky Devi Hemam and Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam. Knowing a victory with a minimum of two goals was essential for progression to the knockout stages, the Blue Tigresses began with strong intentions. Early signs of aggression were visible as Manisha nearly scored from a corner kick in the opening minutes. Despite India posing some threats, Chinese Taipei swiftly countered, with a shot by Chen Jin-wen narrowly missing the target.

First Half Dynamics

India faced an early setback when a misplayed clearance led to Su Yu-hsuan’s goal, putting Chinese Taipei ahead. With their backs against the wall, India needed at least two goals to remain in the competition. Pyari Xaxa’s cross and Sanfida Nongrum’s attempt highlighted India’s desire to fight back. A key moment came when Manisha Kalyan scored from a free-kick after a Video Assistant Referee review confirmed the decision, restoring hope for the Indian side. Just as India seemed galvanized, a penalty awarded to Chinese Taipei in stoppage time saw Hsu’s shot hit the post yet ultimately roll into the goal off the diving goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu.

Second Half Developments

Trailing 2-1, India emerged for the second half with renewed determination, substituting Soumya Guguloth for Rimpa Haldar. They attempted to claw back the match with several shots on target, including an effort from Manisha that went off course. Defensively, Captain Sweety Devi Ngangbam made crucial interventions to halt Chinese Taipei’s advances. However, the pressure led to a critical mistake as YH Su assisted Chen Yu-ting, who capitalized on a defensive lapse and scored the third goal. This incident resulted in injuries for both Indian players involved.

Final Stages of the Match

In the closing minutes of the match, India generated a few more opportunities, including an 86th-minute volley by Sanfida that was blocked, and a 89th-minute free-kick from Manisha that required a diving save from the substitute goalkeeper Chen Ssu-yu. India continued to push for a goal, with a header from Manisha hitting the post in the final minute. Despite their best efforts, India’s inability to find the back of the net led to their elimination from the tournament.

India’s Squad for the Match

India’s lineup for the match included goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam, alongside players such as captain Sweety Devi Ngangbam, Shilky Devi Hemam, and Manisha Kalyan. Substitutions included Shreya Hooda, Juli Kishan, Lynda Kom Serto, Rimpa Haldar, Kaviya Pakkirisamy, and others contributing to the effort in a challenging tournament.

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