Shillong, Oct 26 (NationPress) The Indian senior women’s football team is set to face Nepal in their concluding match of the Tri-Nation Women’s International Friendlies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Monday at 18:00 IST.

Head coach Crispin Chettri sees this match as an opportunity to bounce back from their recent 0-2 defeat to IR Iran and to continue prepping for the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026, while evaluating the breadth and adaptability of his squad.

“The match against Iran wasn’t our best performance, but we viewed it as a valuable learning moment,” Chettri mentioned during the pre-match briefing on Sunday.

“We’ve gained insights on how to prepare for more physically demanding teams. Nepal presents a different challenge, so we aim to deliver a stronger performance tomorrow. Additionally, we will provide chances for younger players, ensuring that by the time we compete in the Asian Cup, we will have a reliable core of 30-35 players.”

In the line-up for this match, Chettri has incorporated several promising talents, including midfielder Julan Nongmaithem, who recently captained the U17 team to Asian Cup qualification, alongside defender Heirangkhongjam Linda Chanu and goalkeeper Adrija Sarkhel. Conversely, Manisha Kalyan, who was absent during the first match, will be sidelined on Monday due to health issues but is expected to recover soon.

Chettri underscored the importance of consistency and flexibility, stating, “The match against Nepal will be competitive. Tactically, we may adopt a different approach, but our foundational strategy remains the same – to build from the back, maintain possession, and create scoring chances instead of relying solely on long balls.”

Addressing the threat from Nepal’s offense, he noted, “They have players like Sabitra Bhandari who can capitalize on counterattacks. We need to strengthen our midfield, manage transitions more effectively, and reduce errors.”

Forward Pyari Xaxa expressed her coach’s optimism, saying, “Our team is dynamic and ready to perform against Nepal. It will be an exhilarating match. We’re excited to take part and will strive to win. Everyone is entrusted to play their role, and I’m committed to contributing to the team’s success.”

From Nepal’s viewpoint, head coach Nabin Neupane conveyed cautious assurance. “This match will be physically demanding for us, and fatigue could be an issue due to travel and a tight schedule. However, all our players are healthy, and we are prepared to give our all for the full 90 minutes,” he stated.

Nepal faced a 0-3 loss to IR Iran on Friday, conceding all three goals within a brief eight-minute span early in the second half.

Neupane added that Nepal is focusing on enhancing their defensive structure and improving their finishing abilities compared to their previous match against Iran. “We’ve studied India’s recent performances and have worked on our tactics, possession, and creating scoring chances. Matches against India are always fierce, and we are confident that our team is ready.”

Both teams share a rich history in South Asian women’s football, promising an intense match on the field and a valuable preparation opportunity for the Blue Tigresses ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The match will be streamed live for free on plus.fifa.com.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Adrija Sarkhel.

Defenders: Heirangkhongjam Linda Chanu, Hemam Shilky Devi, Kiran Pisda, Malati Munda, Martina Thokchom, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, Sorokhaibam Ranjana Chanu.

Midfielders: Julan Nongmaithem, Lisham Babina Devi, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Sangita Basfore, Santosh.

Forwards: Grace Dangmei, Karishma Purushottam Shirvoikar, Lynda Kom Serto, Mousumi Murmu, Pyari Xaxa, Rimpa Haldar.