India's U20 Women's Team Touches Down in Thailand for AFC Asian Cup
Key Takeaways
India's U20 women's team has arrived in Thailand.
The team will acclimatize for 13 days before their first match.
India returns to the AFC Asian Cup after 20 years.
Matches are set against Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei.
Successful performance could lead to the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup.
Bangkok, March 20 (NationPress) The U20 women's football team from India, comprising 24 players, has successfully arrived in Thailand this Friday to prepare for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup. This will allow them to adapt to the local environment ahead of their first Group C encounter next month.
After a gap of 20 years, the Indian women's team has qualified for the Asian Cup and now has a 13-day period to adjust to the conditions in Bangkok before facing Japan on April 2. Following that, they will compete against Australia on April 5 and Chinese Taipei on April 8.
The two leading teams from the group, along with the two best third-placed teams across all three groups, will advance to the quarter-finals. Additionally, the four winners of the quarter-finals will earn a spot in the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup Poland 2026.
Under the guidance of Swedish head coach Joakim Alexandersson, the team began their training camp in Bengaluru in January after the initial phase of the Indian Women's League (IWL).
The squad then traveled to Sweden for a month-long camp where they participated in five friendly matches against senior Swedish club teams.
Upon returning from Scandinavia, the young Tigresses resumed their training in Kolkata, departing for Thailand's capital in the early hours of Friday.
Coach Alexandersson will finalize the 23-member squad closer to the tournament.
The complete traveling squad from India for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026 is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Monalisha Devi Moirangthem, Nandini, Ribansi Jamu.
Defenders: Alka Indwar, Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Nishima Kumari, Remi Thokchom, Ruchi Yadav, Sahena TH, Shubhangi Singh, Thoibisana Chanu Toijam.
Midfielders: Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam, Arina Devi Nameirakpam, Bhumika Devi Khumukcham, Monisha Singha, Neha, Pooja, Shruti Kumari.
Forwards: Babita Kumari, Deepika Pal, Lhingdeikim, Shilji Shaji, Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, Sulanjana Raul.
Head coach: Joakim Alexandersson
Assistant coach: Paromita Sit
Goalkeeping coach: Hameed KK
Point of View
It is heartening to see the Indian U20 women's team returning to the AFC Asian Cup after a significant absence. Their dedication and hard work through rigorous training camps reflect their commitment to the sport. This tournament is not only a platform for showcasing talent but also an opportunity for India to make its mark on the international stage.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When does India play its first match in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup?
India's first match in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup is scheduled against Japan on April 2.
How long will the Indian team acclimatize in Thailand?
The Indian team will spend 13 days acclimatizing to the local conditions in Thailand before their matches.
Who is the head coach of the Indian U20 women's team?
The head coach of the Indian U20 women's team is Joakim Alexandersson.
What is the significance of this tournament for India?
This tournament marks India's return to the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup after a 20-year gap, providing an opportunity to showcase their talent on an international stage.
Which teams will India face in the group stage?
In the group stage, India will face Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei.
