India’s women’s national football team signed off their FIFA Series Kenya 2026 campaign on a positive note, defeating Malawi 3-2 in a closely contested third-place play-off at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on April 15.
In a match defined by momentum swings and decisive moments, the Blue Tigresses showed resilience and composure to emerge victorious.
Goals from Astam Oraon (18’), Aveka Singh (45+1’), and substitute Priyadharshini Selladurai (84’) sealed the win for India, while Malawi stayed competitive throughout with strikes from Khumalo Ireen (42’) and Henry Deborah (60’).
Bright Start and Early Breakthrough
India began the contest with clear attacking intent, dominating early possession and looking to impose themselves in the final third. Their positive approach paid dividends in the 18th minute through a well-worked set-piece. A floated corner from Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam caused confusion in the Malawian defence. Goalkeeper Esther Maulidi misjudged the flight of the ball, allowing it to drop dangerously inside the box. Aveka Singh’s touch deflected it into the path of Astam Oraon, who reacted quickest to slot the ball into the net.
The goal was a milestone moment for the 21-year-old Oraon, marking her first international goal and giving India a deserved lead based on their early dominance.
Malawi Responds Before the Break
Following the setback, Malawi gradually grew into the game, pushing India deeper and increasing their presence in the attacking half. Their persistence was rewarded in the 42nd minute.
A foul by Sanfida Nongrum just outside the box handed Malawi a free-kick in a dangerous position. Khumalo Ireen stepped up and delivered a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner. Despite getting a hand to the ball, Indian goalkeeper Shreya Hooda could not prevent the equaliser.
Just as Malawi looked to carry momentum into halftime, India responded with a crucial goal in stoppage time. A quick passing move down the left flank involving Karishma Shirvoikar and Babina Devi Lisham opened up space in the Malawian defence. Babina’s cross found Aveka Singh in the box, and the forward finished with composure, volleying the ball past the goalkeeper.
Like Oraon, it was also Aveka’s first goal for the national team, restoring India’s lead at a critical juncture.
Malawi emerged stronger in the second half, pressing higher up the pitch and forcing India into defensive situations. The introduction of fresh attacking players added intensity to their approach, and India’s backline was repeatedly tested.
The equaliser arrived in the 60th minute from another set-piece. Khumalo Ireen delivered a corner into the box, where substitute Mulimbika Sarah made initial contact. The ball fell to Henry Deborah, who reacted quickly to volley it into the net, bringing Malawi level at 2-2. At this stage, the match became increasingly physical and fragmented, with both teams relying on direct play and long balls. India had to remain disciplined defensively while looking for opportunities to regain control.
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As the match approached its final stages, it appeared destined for a penalty shootout. However, India found the breakthrough in the 84th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. A long free-kick from Nirmala Devi was directed into the attacking third, where substitute Priyadharshini Selladurai controlled the ball under pressure. Displaying composure and awareness, she cut inside onto her right foot and struck a precise shot into the bottom corner.
The finish left the Malawian goalkeeper with no chance and proved to be the decisive moment of the match.
Holding Nerve Under Pressure
In the closing minutes, Malawi pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but India managed the game effectively. Shreya Hooda played a key role in maintaining the lead, coming off her line to intercept dangerous balls and organising the defence under pressure. The defensive unit, led by Shilky Devi Hemam, showed resilience in dealing with aerial threats and second balls, ensuring that India saw out the match without conceding again.
The victory secured third place for India in the FIFA Series Kenya 2026, providing a much-needed boost after their 0-2 loss to hosts Kenya in the semi-finals. While the tournament exposed areas for improvement, particularly in handling sustained pressure, it also highlighted the emergence of young players capable of stepping up on the international stage.
The goals from Astam Oraon and Aveka Singh, both opening their international accounts, underline the growing depth in the squad. Meanwhile, Priyadharshini Selladurai’s match-winning contribution off the bench demonstrated the impact of effective substitutions.
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For the Blue Tigresses, this result offers both confidence and clarity moving forward. The team showed the ability to respond under pressure and capitalise on key moments qualities essential for sustained success at the international level. As preparations continue for upcoming competitions, the focus will be on building consistency, improving defensive organisation, and enhancing attacking efficiency. The FIFA Series has provided valuable match experience, and the third-place finish serves as a platform to build upon.
India’s campaign in Nairobi may not have ended with a final appearance, but the manner of their victory against Malawi ensures they leave with momentum and renewed belief.
