Top five players to watch out for India at AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026
India announces 26-member squad for AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026.
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup will see India begin their campaign against Vietnam on March 4 at the Perth Rectangular Stadium at 16:30 IST. They will face Japan on March 7 at the same venue before taking on Chinese Taipei on March 10 at the Western Sydney Stadium.
Led by Amelia Valverde, India will aim to finish in the top two to reach the quarterfinals, with World Cup qualification for Brazil 2027 also at stake.
Let us look at top 5 players from India to watch out for in this tournament.
5. Sweety Devi
Sweety Devi Ngangbam is one of India’s most dependable figures at the back and a true leader in the heart of defense. The 26-year-old Centre-back combines calmness with composure, rarely getting flustered under pressure and always reading the game intelligently.
With 66 international caps to her name, Sweety brings invaluable experience to the squad. Her ability to organise the backline, win crucial duels, and play out from the defense makes her a vital cog in India’s setup heading into the tournament.
At club level, she represents East Bengal FC, where she continues to showcase her consistency and leadership qualities. As India gear up for their campaign, Sweety stands out as a player to watch, a steady presence who could prove decisive when it matters most.
4. Lynda Kom
Twenty-year-old forward Lynda Kom is another exciting talent to keep an eye on in India’s campaign. Young, fearless, and direct in her approach, she adds pace and sharpness to the attacking line.
With 10 international caps and five goals already to her name, Lynda has shown a natural eye for goal and the ability to make an impact in crucial moments.
Whether deployed from the start or introduced as a super sub, she brings energy and unpredictability that can trouble any defense.
Currently representing Sethu FC at the club level, Lynda continues to grow in confidence and maturity. If India need a spark in the final third, she could very well be the difference-maker.
3. Anju Tamang
Anju Tamang will once again be central to India’s plans as they head into the tournament.
The 30-year-old midfielder brings experience, composure, and a strong attacking instinct that makes her a constant threat in the final third.
With 68 international caps and 15 goals to her name, Anju has consistently delivered for the national team over the years.
Her ability to control the tempo, link midfield with attack, and step up in crucial moments makes her one of India’s most reliable performers.
Currently playing for Sribhumi FC at club level, Anju continues to lead by example. In a high-pressure campaign, her experience and goal-scoring knack could prove decisive for India.
Read More: 26-member India squad for AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 announced
2. Grace Dangmei
Grace Dangmei will be one of India’s most influential figures heading into the tournament.
The 30-year-old forward is the most experienced player in the squad, bringing leadership, maturity, and a wealth of big-match experience to the team.
With 91 international appearances and 23 goals to her name, Grace has been a consistent performer for India over the years.
Her movement in the final third, ability to create chances, and knack for stepping up in crucial moments make her a vital asset in attack.
Currently representing Sribhumi FC at club level, Grace continues to lead from the front. As India look to make a strong impact, her experience and composure could prove decisive in tight contests.
1. Manisha Kalyan
Manisha Kalyan remains one of the most important players in this Indian side. At just 24, she already brings a wealth of international exposure and big-game experience that sets her apart.
With 46 caps and 14 goals for India, Manisha has consistently delivered in crucial moments. Her pace, creativity, and attacking intelligence make her a constant threat in the final third.
She has also made history by playing and scoring in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, underlining her pedigree at the highest level.
Currently plying her trade with Peruvian giants Alianza Lima, she recently registered her first goal for the club, another milestone in her growing journey abroad.
Manisha’s international experience and confidence could prove decisive.
Honorary mentions
Aveka Singh
Among the honorary mentions is 22-year-old midfielder Aveka Singh, a promising addition to the Indian squad. Recently called up to the national team, she brings fresh energy and valuable international exposure to the setup.
Currently playing for Danish side Næstved HG, Aveka has been developing her game in a competitive European environment.
Her overseas experience, tactical awareness, and composure in midfield could add an extra dimension to India’s options as they head into the tournament.
Pyari Xaxa
Pyari Xaxa is another honorable mention who could play a crucial role for India.
The 28-year-old forward brings raw pace, directness, and quality in the attacking third, making her a constant threat to opposition defenses. With 37 international caps and 18 goals to her name, Pyari has proven her ability to deliver on the big stage.
Her sharp movement, finishing instinct, and ability to stretch the backline add a different dimension to India’s attack. She has the experience and firepower to turn games in India’s favor and could well emerge as a key contributor during the campaign.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Ayushman Sharma is a sports enthusiast with a deep love for football, following the game closely since 2018. A hardcore supporter of NorthEast United FC and FC Barcelona, he has also gained valuable on-ground experience by volunteering during FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in Guwahati.