India U20 Women Placed in Group of Death at AFC Asian Cup 2026

by Chandler D'silva November 10, 2025

The India U20 women’s national football team is set to make its first appearance in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup since 2006, after being drawn into the Group of Death for the upcoming 2026 edition in Thailand, scheduled from April 1 to 18, 2026.

The draw, held in Bangkok, placed India in Group C, one of the toughest pools of the tournament, featuring some of Asia’s strongest and most experienced teams. The championship will see 12 nations compete for continental glory, with the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed sides progressing to the knockout stage.

India earned their return to the competition after nearly two decades by finishing top of their qualifying group earlier this year, ahead of Myanmar, Indonesia, and Turkmenistan. The team impressed with their top quality and teamwork throughout the qualifiers.

Their qualification marks a significant milestone for Indian women’s football, as the young Blue Tigresses prepare to compete against the continent’s best. While the task ahead is challenging, it also presents a valuable opportunity for India’s rising stars to gain experience, showcase their progress, and continue the nation’s growing presence in Asian football.

As India prepare for their long-awaited return, the focus will be on building momentum and belief. This appearance after 19 years is not just a comeback — it’s a statement of progress and promise for the future of women’s football in India. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed sides, will qualify for the quarter-finals, and the four semi-finalists will earn a berth at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026.

AFC U20 WOMEN’S ASIAN CUP THAILAND 2026 FINAL DRAW

Group A: Thailand, China PR, Vietnam, Bangladesh
Group B: DPR Korea, Korea Republic, Uzbekistan, Jordan
Group C: Japan, Australia, Chinese Taipei, India

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