India senior women's team aim to end Turkiye tour on high with win against FC Schlieren

India lost their first match against FC Zurich.

After the 0–2 defeat against Ukrainian side FC Metalist 1925 Kharkiv on 18 January 2026 and the friendly against FC Zurich getting cancelled, the India senior women’s football team are eager to bounce back as they take on Swiss side FC Schlieren in a friendly clash on 24 January 2026 in Türkiye.

This match is the last friendly of India’s Türkiye tour and is also very important, keeping in mind the preparation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026. Ahead of this fixture, head coach Amelia Valverde has already joined the squad, bringing her World Cup experience and tactical expertise to guide the team through these crucial warm-up matches.

The Stakes

India

India will be looking to bounce back and show resilience after their 0–2 loss to FC Metalist 1925 Kharkiv. The team will aim to regain confidence, refine their tactical play and make the most of this friendly as a chance to correct mistakes and build cohesion on the field.

Every minute will be an opportunity for players to strengthen their understanding with teammates and put lessons from the previous game into practice.

Adding to the excitement, Amelia Valverde’s arrival brings fresh ideas and guidance to the squad. Her expertise promises to sharpen India’s attack, improve midfield organisation and tighten defensive stability.

At the same time, facing FC Schlieren, a good Swiss side, will be a stern test, challenging India to adapt quickly to disciplined, technically strong opposition while finding ways to assert their own style of play.

This friendly will play a very important role for India’s preparation, as the last friendly against a strong FC Zurich was cancelled. This will be the last match that they play in Türkiye and will be very crucial for the Indian side.

FC Schlieren

FC Schlieren head into this friendly as one of the strong contenders in the Swiss Nationalliga B. Currently fourth in the table with 29 points, they remain firmly in the promotion race and will be eager to carry that momentum forward.

Having won 3 of their last 5 matches, with 1 draw and 1 defeat, Schlieren have shown consistency and competitiveness. With the league set to restart on 7 February, this fixture serves as an important opportunity for them to sharpen match fitness and prepare for the decisive phase of their promotion push.

Current Form

India: (L-L-L-L-W)

FC Schlieren: (W-L-D-W-W)

Predicted Lineups

India (4-2-3-1)

Panthoi Elangbam (GK) (C), Nirmala Phanjoubam, Shilky Hemam, Juli Kishan, Sangita Basfore, Rimpa Halder, Anju Tamang, Pyari Xaxa, Martina Thokchom, Astam Oraon, Jasoda Munda

FC Schlieren (4-1-3-2)

A. Eigenmann (GK), A.V Oviedo, C. Burgisser (C), S. Dietrich, L. Gachter, L. Bonfardin, A. Geiser, S. Hashani, N. Gachter, C. Rochat, S. Raschle

Players to Watch Out For

Pyari Xaxa (India)

All eyes will be on Pyari Xaxa, one of India’s most dependable attacking threats. With 18 goals in 39 appearances for the national team, she has built a reputation for delivering in key moments.

Xaxa was at her ruthless best during India’s 13–0 win over Mongolia, where she scored five goals, underlining her clinical finishing and movement inside the box.

Blessed with pace, intelligence, and confidence in front of goal, she could play a decisive role against FC Schlieren as India look to sharpen their edge ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Stefanie Raschle (FC Schlieren)

Stefanie Raschle has emerged as one of the key attacking threats this season. The 22-year-old Swiss striker has already netted 8 goals in 16 appearances, highlighting her sharp finishing and strong presence in the box.

Known for her intelligent movement and ability to exploit space, Raschle consistently troubles defenders with well-timed runs and calm decision-making in front of goal. Her threat up front adds another dimension to the attack, and India’s defence will need to stay focused to keep her quiet.

Match Details

Date: 24 January 2026

Kick-off Time: 17:30 IST

Venue: Manavgat, Türkiye

Streaming: TBD!

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