Blue Tigresses face Iraq in key AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifier
New Delhi: India will look to continue their unbeaten run in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers when they face Iraq on Wednesday, July 2, at the 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
The match kicks off at 2:30 p.m. IST and will be streamed live on Changsuek’s YouTube channel and Thai Women’s Football Facebook page.
The Blue Tigresses top Group B with six points and a +17 goal difference, following convincing wins over Mongolia (13-0) and Timor-Leste (4-0).
Thailand, also on six points, trail with a +11 difference. Iraq on the other hand are in dire straits- with four points from three matches- and must beat India to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Despite the race for goal difference with Thailand ahead of their final clash on July 5, India’s head coach Crispin Chettri stressed that securing three points against Iraq is the only focus.
Chettri praised Iraq’s attacking intent but noted their fatigue from consecutive matches may offer India an edge.
With 22 players already rotated, he may continue balancing youth and experience while aiming for a strong start.
Soumya Guguloth, who fractured her nose against Timor-Leste, is ruled out.
