AIFF mulling to sign foreign coach for Indian women's football team

AIFF wishes to sign an experienced foreign coach.

The Indian women’s football team recently faced a winless campaign against an inexperienced Myanmar side during their Myanmar tour. India lost the first game 2-1, while the home side came from behind to draw the second game 1-1. Consequently, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is considering replacing the current women’s football team head coach Chaoba Devi, Khel Now understands.

The recent results of the team have not impressed the AIFF and to improve the rankings and results, the federation wishes to sign an experienced coach. The current head coach Chaoba Devi was informed by the AIFF during the camp in Bhubaneswar, before the Myanmar tour, that if the results in Myanmar are not ideal then the federation will move to look for an experienced foreign head coach.

 A source close to the team informed, “The AIFF wishes to sign an experienced foreign coach and the current head coach was duly informed about the same, letting her know the expectations of the federation.”

Since then, Chaoba had prepared her team intending to win and adhere to the directions received from the AIFF. Moreover, the source revealed that the senior players were called into a room and Chaoba Devi requested them to give it their all.

“During the camp, Chaoba called a few senior players informing them about the federation’s intention to hire a foreign coach before the upcoming SAFF Championship. Hence, she told the players to give their best for the two games,” the source further stated.

The women’s team has had a turbulent last two years, winning just four games against low-ranked Hong Kong, Estonia and the Kyrgyz Republic, while losing 14 games in the same period. Since the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers are on the horizon, the federation is looking to make the necessary changes.

Despite the results, Chaoba Devi might still be associated with the national team in a much lesser role as an assistant coach, but the final decision will be made by the incoming coach and the AIFF.

Myanmar fielded inexperienced squad against India

It is interesting to note that the Japanese head coach Tetsuro Uki of Myanmar opted for a young and inexperienced squad, keeping long-term aspirations in mind. Kyi Lin was the only senior player called up by the Japanese tactician, as she expressed her desire to retire from national team duties.

The women’s team, under Chaoba, has played seven games and registered two wins, three draws and two losses. The team’s next assignment will be the SAFF Championship in Nepal in late October.

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