The Indian Women's Football Team faced a heartbreaking exit from the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 after a 1-3 defeat against Chinese Taipei in their final Group C match at the Western Sydney Stadium, Australia. Despite a spirited performance, where they narrowly lost 2-1 in added time to last edition’s quarter-finalist team, Vietnam (FIFA ranked 37) in their opening match, they were then outplayed by two-time continental champions Japan by a huge margin of 11-0. The third consecutive loss meant that India, ranked 67, finished at the bottom of the group and faced an early exit before the knockout stages of the tournament.

The match began with an early setback for India as Chinese Taipei's Su Yu Yu-Hsuan found the back of the net in the 12th minute, capitalising on a defensive error. India responded with determination, and their efforts paid off when Manisha Kalyan equalised in the 39th minute with a stunning free-kick that struck the underside of the crossbar before being confirmed as a goal after a VAR check.

However, the joy was short-lived for the Blue Tigresses. Just before half-time, Hsu Yi-Yun converted a penalty awarded in injury time, restoring Chinese Taipei's lead to 2-1. This was a bitter blow for India, who had fought hard to level the score.

Head coach Amelia Valverde made tactical changes, introducing Shilky Devi Hemam and Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam in hopes of securing a victory that would keep their tournament hopes alive. The team started the second half with renewed vigour, but despite several attempts, including a close call from Manisha and a volley from Sanfida Nongrum, they could not find the equaliser.

The match took a further turn in the 77th minute when Chen Yu-Ting extended Chinese Taipei's lead to 3-1, capitalising on a defensive lapse. India’s goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam, who had made several crucial saves throughout the tournament, was left vulnerable as the defence struggled to contain the swift counter-attack.

In the closing stages, India pressed hard for a comeback, with Manisha coming close on multiple occasions, including a free-kick expertly saved by substitute goalkeeper Chen Ssu-yu. Despite their relentless efforts, including a header that struck the post, the Blue Tigresses could not find a consolation goal.

As the final whistle blew, disappointment was palpable among the Indian players, who showcased resilience and skill throughout the tournament but were found wanting on the big stage. The team will now look to regroup and build on their experiences as they prepare for future competitions.

India (starting XI and substitutes): Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (GK) (Shreya Hooda 83’), Sweety Devi Ngangbam (C) (Juli Kishan 83’), Shilky Devi Hemam (Lynda Kom Serto 63’), Sangita Basfore, Soumya Guguloth (Rimpa Haldar 46'), Sanju Yadav (Kaviya Pakkirisamy 83’), Pyari Xaxa, Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Martina Thokchom, Manisha Kalyan, Sanfida Nongrum.

Results (Group C league phase): India 1 (Manisha Kalyan 39’) lost to Chinese Taipei 3 (Su Yu-hsuan 12’, Hsu Yi-Yun 45+8’ P, Chen Yu-ting 77’) (HT 1-2)