Blue Tigresses to Face Uzbekistan in Crucial Friendly Matches Ahead of Asian Cup Qualifiers

The Senior India Women's National Football Team is gearing up for two pivotal FIFA Women's International Friendly matches against Uzbekistan, slated for the May/June 2025 international window. These encounters are scheduled to unfold on May 30 and June 3, at Bengaluru's Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence, according to the All India Football Federation's official announcement.

Guided by Coach Crispin Chettri, the Blue Tigresses commenced their rigorous training in Bengaluru on May 1, in anticipation of the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Grouped in Group B, India will go head-to-head with Mongolia (June 23), Timor-Leste (June 29), Iraq (July 2), and Thailand (July 5) in Chiang Mai. Ranked 69th by FIFA, India has previously met Uzbekistan, ranked 50th, on 13 occasions, securing victory once while Uzbekistan triumphed nine times, with the remaining three matches resulting in draws.

The squad features a lineup of talented players including goalkeepers Payal Basude and Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, defenders like Purnima Kumari and Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, and forwards such as Mousumi Murmu and Malavika P. This diverse team is poised to challenge Uzbekistan with a blend of experience and youthful vigor.

(With inputs from agencies.)