Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 19: The senior India women’s national football team is set to return to international action in the FIFA International Window, with their first match in the Pink Ladies Cup 2025 against Jordan in Sharjah.
India's head coach, Crispin Chettri, shared his thoughts on the team's current phase, highlighting the transition they are going through. “We are in a transitional phase, bringing in many new players. Everyone is willing to work hard for the greater good of the team. It’s important to support and motivate these players as they break new ground by being part of this tournament,” said Chettri. “Right now, we need to focus on the positives.”
The Indian team arrived in Sharjah on Tuesday and will face Jordan at the Al Hamriya Sports Club Stadium. In addition to the match against Jordan, India will also play Russia and the Korea Republic on February 23 and 26, respectively.
Chettri acknowledged Jordan’s progress in recent years but emphasized that these matches are crucial for India’s advancement. “Jordan have made good strides, but these are matches we must win to continue progressing. We have a strong mix of experienced and younger players, so it will be a competitive game,” he said.
Prior to their arrival in Sharjah, the team spent 10 days in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, where they trained and prepared for the competition. Chettri pointed out the advantage of the Indian Women’s League (IWL) season extension, which has helped the team maintain peak physical condition. “We only had a 10-day camp before the Pink Ladies Cup, but the good thing is the players are already in mid-season form. We could immediately focus on tactical aspects and how to organize as a unit,” he explained.
Fullback Sanju also agreed with the coach’s sentiment, adding, “Playing regular matches is crucial, and we’ve had that through the IWL. Now, with the national team, we can focus on implementing our system rather than spending time on fitness. Every player is in peak physical shape.”
India is ranked 13th in Asia and 69th in the world, while Jordan sits at 14th in Asia and 74th globally. However, Chettri dismissed concerns over the ranking difference, emphasizing the current transitional phase of the team. The two sides have faced off three times, with one win each and one draw.