Inside India's Strategic Preparations for AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026

Indian women's football team coach Crispin Chettri revealed plans for monthly preparation camps starting October to ready the team for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026. The camps aim to avoid scheduling conflicts with the Indian Women's League (IWL), according to Chettri, who discussed the plans in a press conference organized by the All India Football Federation.

The senior women's and U20 teams have both qualified for major tournaments. Camps were delayed to ensure participation in current national championships, reflecting strategic planning before the Asian Cup where India faces formidable opponents like Japan and Vietnam. Extensive training, including internationals, is part of the preparation.

Measures are in place to prevent IWL scheduling overlaps. Chettri detailed coordination efforts with clubs and the AIFF. The U20 team, led by Joakim Alexandersson, will undergo exposure games in Slovenia and further camps using FIFA windows. The U23 men's team, despite missing qualifiers, noted significant young talent emerging.

(With inputs from agencies.)