The stage is set in Yangon, Myanmar, where India’s U-20 women’s football team known as the Young Tigresses will battle from August 6 to 10, 2025, in the AFC U20 Women Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Carrying the dreams of millions, this talented squad seeks to end a 19-year absence from Asia’s premier youth finals—a feat that could redefine the trajectory of Indian women’s football.
A Look Back: Moments of Promise and Pain
India first entered the AFC U-19 Women’s Championship in 2002 as hosts. They impressed early, defeating Guam 6–0, but fell to regional powerhouses Japan and South Korea, exiting at the group stage. The 2004 edition remains India’s best finish: after beating Hong Kong and Singapore, they reached the quarter-finals before a heavy 0–10 defeat to North Korea ended the run.
In 2006, India returned to the finals but couldn’t escape the “group of death,” exiting without a win a moment that marked the last appearance in the continental finals. Since then, the journey has been marked by heartbreak. In 2007, narrow losses to Myanmar and Thailand proved decisive, and in 2009, India suffered a record 0–18 defeat to Australia, exposing the gulf in quality.
Perhaps the closest near-miss came in the 2019 qualifiers: after a historic 18–0 win over Pakistan and a stunning 1–0 upset of Thailand, India lost 0–2 to Nepal. On head-to-head criteria, the dream ended just short. But each setback has forged a stronger, hungrier generation determined to rewrite history.
Where India Stands: South Asian Giants Eyeing Asian Breakthrough
While FIFA doesn’t rank U-20 teams, India’s dominance at the South Asian level is clear. Since 2018, the Young Tigresses have medaled at every SAFF age-group event, including championship wins in 2022 and a shared title in 2024. This regional success offers hope but Asia’s upper tier remains formidable.
Teams like Japan, North Korea, China, and South Korea have consistently contested the U-20 Women’s Asian Cup, setting high benchmarks. For India, qualifying for the 2026 finals in Thailand would mark only the fourth-ever appearance and the first since 2006. Recent investments by the AIFF in youth camps, coaching upgrades, and overseas tours reflect a national strategy to close this competitive gap.
The Road to Myanmar: Preparation and Qualifying Stakes
Ahead of the qualifiers, the squad trained intensively at Bengaluru’s Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence. In July, they travelled to Tashkent for friendlies against Uzbekistan’s U-20 team. After a 1–1 draw, India showcased attacking flair in a 4–1 win, impressing coach Joakim Alexandersson. “We dominated the second half and deserved the win, but we must finish our chances,” he noted pointing to both progress and the need for sharper execution.
The qualifiers themselves are highly competitive. Thirty-two nations are divided into eight groups of four. Only group winners and the three best runners-up will join hosts Thailand in the 12-team 2026 finals. India, placed in Group D, faces Myanmar, Indonesia, and Turkmenistan in Yangon. With only three matches and little margin for error, every goal could matter.
Meet the Squad: Blending Experience and Emerging Talent
Coach Alexanderson, appointed in late 2024, has shaped a high-pressing, possession-focused approach, supported by assistant coach Paromita Sit and strength coach Karan Mane.
- Goalkeepers: Melody Chanu Keisham and Monalisha Devi Moirangthem bring composure and big-match experience, having played the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2022.
- Defenders: Captain Shubhangi Singh anchors a backline that includes the tough-tackling Alina Chingakham, aerially strong Juhi Singh, and reliable Remi Thokchom.
- Midfielders: Bhumika Devi Khumukcham is the creative heartbeat, supported by Neha’s passing vision and Pooja’s dynamism. On the wings, Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam adds pace and directness.
- Forwards: Sulanjana Raul, who scored against Uzbekistan, leads the line alongside clinical finisher Babita Kumari and the agile Deepika Pal.
Leadership is shared among senior figures like Bhumika Devi and Shubhangi Singh, who set standards on and off the field.
The Challenge Ahead: Fixtures and Group Analysis
All matches take place at Yangon’s Thuwunna Stadium under humid conditions:
- August 6: India vs. Indonesia (18:00 IST)
- August 8: Turkmenistan vs. India (18:00 IST)
- August 10: Myanmar vs. India (15:00 IST)
Myanmar are favourite, combining technical skill with home support. A draw or win against them could be decisive. Indonesia have shown inconsistency but can’t be underestimated; the opener demands focus. Turkmenistan, debutants, are physical but inexperienced an opportunity where India must win convincingly and boost goal difference.
More Than Qualification: A Symbolic Campaign
This campaign comes amid a rising tide for Indian women’s football. Just weeks ago, the senior Blue Tigresses qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup after 23 years, defeating Thailand 2–1 a breakthrough inspiring the juniors. Yet, recent disappointments, like an early exit at the 2022 Asian Games, underline the mental resilience needed on big days. Joint training camps with senior players have fostered mentorship and belief. For many Young Tigresses, Myanmar could be the stepping stone to senior national honors and a stage to inspire young girls back home.
Qualifying for Thailand 2026 would mean more than another tournament. It could energize grassroots programme, attract sponsorship, and expand the talent pool. Players like Melody Chanu, Bhumika Devi, and Sulanjana Raul can become role models for a new generation.
Aligned with AIFF’s Vision 2047 roadmap, the federation is focusing on holistic development—from nutrition and mental wellness to sports science and coaching. The goal is to move from isolated flashes of success to sustained continental competitiveness.
A Nation Watches
As the Young Tigresses step onto the Yangon pitch, they carry the weight of history and the promise of the future. Their campaign isn’t only about qualification; it’s about redefining what’s possible for Indian women’s football. With discipline, courage, and a belief forged by years of preparation, this generation has the chance to roar—not just for themselves, but for every young girl in India who dreams of the beautiful game.
All eyes now turn to Myanmar. The countdown begins.
