The Indian women’s football team kicked off their AFC Women Asian Cup 2026 qualification campaign with a record-breaking performance, dismantling Mongolia 13-0 in their opening Group B encounter.
This emphatic win marks India’s biggest-ever margin of victory in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup (including qualifiers), eclipsing their previous 10-0 triumphs over Guam in 1997 and 2005.
The match, held at a neutral venue, was a one-sided affair from the first whistle. The Blue Tigresses, brimming with energy and intent, dominated all facets of the game, delivering a clear statement of their qualification ambitions.
Pyari Xaxa Stars With Historic Five-Goal Haul
Leading the charge for India was Pyari Xaxa, who netted an incredible five goals, stamping her authority as the standout performer of the day. Her relentless movement, sharp finishing, and instinctive positioning completely unsettled the Mongolian backline. Xaxa, often regarded as one of India’s most potent attacking threats, displayed elite composure in front of goal and became only the third Indian woman to score five or more goals in a competitive international match.
Her performance not only boosted India’s goal difference but also set the tone for the rest of the qualification campaign.
Support From Soumya and Priyadarshini
While Xaxa hogged the limelight with her five-star display, she was ably supported by Soumya Guguloth and Priyadarshini Selladurai, both of whom scored braces. Soumya, playing from the wings, troubled the Mongolian defence with her speed and dribbling, often finding space to deliver clinical finishes. Priyadarshini, operating in midfield, showed excellent timing with her forward runs and was rewarded with two smartly taken goals.
The remaining goals came from a mix of set-pieces and open play, with India keeping up the pressure throughout the 90 minutes. Every substitution injected fresh energy, and the squad’s depth was on full display.
Tactical Brilliance and Complete Control
India’s head coach ensured the team approached the match with the right blend of aggression and discipline. The midfield, anchored by experienced campaigners, controlled possession and tempo with ease, while the defence rarely tested maintained shape and focus, ensuring a clean sheet. Goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan had a quiet day at the office, but her communication from the back ensured India stayed organised.
India’s build-up play was structured and patient, often switching flanks to exploit gaps in Mongolia’s defensive line. The pressing high up the pitch also created multiple turnovers, leading directly to scoring chances.
Breaking Records, Building Momentum
This win is not just a strong start—it’s a statement. The 13-0 scoreline is India’s highest-ever in AFC Women’s Asian Cup history, a new benchmark that reflects both attacking flair and tactical maturity. It surpasses the 10-0 victories over Guam in the qualifiers of 1997 and 2005, and demonstrates the evolution of the Indian women’s game in recent years.
Moreover, the massive goal difference gives India an early advantage in the race to top Group B, where only the group winner progresses to the final tournament.
While the result against Mongolia is encouraging, the Indian camp is mindful that tougher opponents lie ahead in the group. The win gives the team confidence, but it also comes with the responsibility to maintain performance levels and not get complacent. The next fixture will likely test India’s defensive structure and match sharpness more rigorously.
For now, though, the focus is on recovery, training, and carrying forward this momentum.
What This Means for Indian Women’s Football
India’s women’s team has been on an upward trajectory, with more exposure tours, better domestic competitions, and increased investment in player development. Wins like these amplify the buzz around the women’s game and provide role models for aspiring young footballers across the country.
This performance not only sends a message to other teams in the group but also strengthens the argument for more consistent international fixtures and infrastructure support for the women’s team.
Full-Time: India 🇮🇳 13–0 Mongolia 🇲🇳
Goal Scorers:
- Pyari Xaxa – 5 goals
- Soumya Guguloth – 2 goals
- Priyadarshini Selladurai – 2 goals
India couldn’t have asked for a better start to their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualification campaign. With history rewritten and confidence sky-high, the Blue Tigresses now look ahead to the next challenge with momentum on their side and belief in their journey to Asia’s elite stage.
