Sangita Basfore leads Indian women’s team to AFC Asian Cup 2026

Sangita Basfore emerged as the hero as India’s women’s national team made history by qualifying for the 2026 AFC Asian Cup — defeating Thailand 2-1 in the qualification match at Chiang Mai Stadium.

The defensive midfielder scored two impressive goals — one volley from outside the penalty box and one precise header that secured her team’s victory. The favored Thailand side hit the woodwork twice.

Coach Crispin Chhetri’s team had previously defeated:

• Mongolia with a score of 13-0
• Iraq with a score of 5-0
• Timor Leste with a score of 4-0

“I had Sunil Chhetri’s words in mind — ‘Remember why you started playing football.’ We are senior players, this could be our last chance to feel and qualify for the World Cup,” said Basfore after the match.

This achievement holds special meaning for Basfore who missed the 2022 Asian Cup due to an ACL injury and lost her father. Now she has led India to the tournament to be held in Australia next year — where eight of the 12 participating teams will have a chance to qualify for the Women’s World Cup.