Top 5 performers for Team India at the AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers

India has scored a total of 24 goals in the tournament.

The Indian women’s football team created history on Saturday, July 5th. For the first time ever, Team India had a successful campaign and qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup via the qualifying route.

India’s last appearance at the continental stage was in 2003, when there were no qualifiers. The Blue Tigresses participated again in 2022 as the hosts but were forced to withdraw because of a COVID outbreak in the camp. This time however they have qualified on the basis of merit.

The Blue Tigresses, topping Group B in the AFC Women’s Asia Cup Qualifier,s are the proof that this tournament was a victory earned by every single player individually and as a group. It speaks a lot about the strength derived from the unity of the team here by setting a strong example for other teams and celebrating the spirit of strength and unity.

Let’s take a look at the top 5 performers for Team India at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers 2026

Also Read: Merit over Millions: Blue Tigresses Roar Louder Than Wallets

5. Sweety Devi Ngangbam

Sweety Devi Ngangbam stood at the centre of India’s defence in a composed but powerful way. Her defensive skills, composure, and good positioning consistently helped India maintain the momentum and stay in control of the game

She also wore the captain’s armband for two crucial games where she handled her responsibility really well. She led the backline with composure even in the most tense situations. She offered the Blue Tigresses a sense of security and safety every time the opposition’s attackers moved forward

4. Manisha Kalyan

Manisha Kalyan showcased her attacking prowess in this campaign, emerging as one of India’s most strongest players on the pitch. Manisha Kalyan scored twice in the win against Timor Leste and it was followed by a crucial goal against Iraq, proving her ability to deliver in key moments.

She had sharp moments across the flanks and was frequently at the heart of India’s attacking moves. Whether it was through creating chances for others, delivering good crosses, or moving the defenders away from the final third, Manisha was constantly disrupting the opposition’s defense. Her energy, intensity, and creativity made her a constant threat throughout the tournament.

3. Soumya Guguloth

Despite limited game time on the field, Soumya Guguloth has made her presence felt in this campaign with two impressive goals to her name. Soumya used her pace, agility, and vision to break through opposition defences and create crucial chances.

Even in the short time she was available, Soumya consistently was posing threats to the opposition with her pace and intelligent positioning.

Unfortunately she couldn’t perform in all the matches due to a nasal injury during the match against Timor Leste which required immediate surgery.

2. Pyari Xaxa

Pyari Xaxa scored 5 goals in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers opening game against Mongolia. Pyari Xaxa is the second position in the elite list of Players to score five or more goals in a single international match by an Indian player

Throughout the game She was also dictating the tempo in the final third along with smart positioning. She’s not just a finisher but also someone who constantly keeps creating chances. The spatial awareness, those slight off-the-ball runs her calm finishes along with her immense work rate.

1. Sangita Basfore

Sangita Basfore proved to be a powerhouse in the midfield showing excellent ball control, quick transitions and confident tackling. She began Team India’s campaign by scoring the opening goal against Mongolia and continued her form with a 14th-minute strike against Iraq.

Sangita always rose to the occasion when it mattered most in front of goal. Her true callibre was visible in the fixture against Thailand.

With immense pressure on the team and the stakes being even higher Sangita scored both goals in a commanding performance that not only sealed the win but also officially qualified the Blue Tigresses to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Her incredible display throughout the qualifiers show her value as one of India’s most reliable and standout players of the tournament.

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