Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Chiang Mai, Jun 29: The Indian senior women's football team continued their impressive campaign in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, storming to a dominant 4–0 victory over Timor-Leste at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai on Sunday.

Manisha Kalyan led the charge with a stunning brace (12’, 80’), while Anju Tamang (58’) and Lynda Kom Serto (86’) added to the tally in a match that India controlled from start to finish.

The win sees India firmly atop Group B with six points from two games, following their record-breaking 13–0 rout of Mongolia earlier in the tournament. With upcoming fixtures still to play between Iraq and Thailand, India have made a bold statement in their pursuit of the group’s top spot.

Early Dominance

India began aggressively, mirroring their momentum from the Mongolia clash. They pressed high and carved out early chances, with Tamang nearly opening the scoring in the sixth minute. But it was Manisha who broke the deadlock in the 12th minute after a slick exchange with Tamang unlocked the left flank. Showing blistering pace, she cut inside and buried a left-footed strike into the net.

India continued to dictate proceedings. Pyari Xaxa hit the post in the 17th minute, and Soumya Guguloth tested goalkeeper Gorette Da Costa, who stood tall against a barrage of Indian attacks. Despite dominating possession, India went into the break with a narrow 1–0 lead.

Second-Half Flourish

India returned with greater urgency, and their persistence paid off in the 58th minute. A misjudged cross from Sanju allowed Tamang to pounce and double the lead from close range.

Manisha added her second in the 80th minute with a fierce shot from the edge of the box after another clever assist from Tamang. India’s final goal, in the 86th minute, was the result of flowing team play. Substitutes Grace Dangmei and Lynda Kom Serto linked up to slice through the defence, with Grace unselfishly setting up Lynda to tap home with ease.

Flawless So Far

With this commanding performance, India have now scored 17 goals in just two matches without conceding. The result not only strengthens their position in the group but also sends a clear message to their rivals in the qualifiers.

The Blue Tigresses will next look to build on this momentum as they chase qualification for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, aiming to end their campaign with consistency, confidence, and continued dominance.