India Dominates Iraq with a resounding 5-0 win in AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers

by Chittu Shetty July 2, 2025

India delivered a dominant performance, securing a commanding 5-0 win against Iraq in their AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers Group B encounter.

This impressive win marks India’s third consecutive triumph in the group, firmly placing them at the top of the table and setting the stage for a thrilling, winner-takes-all decider against Thailand.

The Blue Tigresses showcased their attacking variations throughout the match, with a fantastic display of teamwork culminating in five different players scoring.

India wasted no time in asserting their dominance, opening the scoring early in the first half through Sangita Basfore in the 14th minute. A well-delivered corner kick confused the Iraqi penalty area, and the goalkeeper spilled the ball which rebounded off Basfore and into the net, giving India a crucial early lead. Just as the first half was drawing to a close, Manisha Kalyan doubled India’s advantage in the 44th minute. Her low shot from the edge of the box caught the Iraqi custodian unaware, slipping through her grasp and finding the back of the net. This timely goal sent India into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 cushion.

The second half kicked off with an immediate impact from India. Karthika Angamuthu unleashed a truly spectacular strike in the 47th minute from approximately 30 yards out. The ball soared through the air, dipping perfectly just under the crossbar and nestling into the top right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and putting India firmly in control at 3-0. The long-range masterclass continued as Nirmala Phanjoubam added her name to the scoresheet in the 64th minute. A clearance from the Iraqi defense landed perfectly for Nirmala at the edge of the box. She wasted no time, striking a powerful shot that mirrored Angamuthu’s earlier effort, finding the top corner and extending India’s lead to 4-0.

India capped off their dominant display with a fifth goal in the 80th minute through Ratanbala Nongmaithem. A relentless attack down the left flank led to a goalmouth scramble in front of the Iraqi goal. Amidst the chaos, Nongmaithem showed excellent composure to slot the ball home, securing the comprehensive 5-0 victory.

This emphatic win not only solidifies India’s position at the summit of Group B but also builds immense momentum heading into their final group stage match. The stage is now perfectly set for a highly anticipated clash against Thailand, which promises to be a virtual final, with the winner likely securing direct qualification for the prestigious AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The Indian team will be looking to carry this incredible form and confidence into their most crucial fixture yet.

FT: India 5 (Sangita Basfore 14′, Manisha Kalyan 44′, Karthika Angamuthu 47′, Nirmala Phanjoubam 64′, Ratanbala Nongmaithem 80′) – 0 Iraq

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