India’s women’s football team achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, a moment that brought head coach Crispin Chettri to his knees in an emotional display.
An Emotional Triumph
The final whistle against hosts Thailand confirmed India’s spot, a moment Crispin Chettri described as freezing. Known for his calm demeanor, Chettri admits the overwhelming emotion was unlike anything he’d experienced before, even surprising his club colleagues.
Strategy Behind the Success
Chettri entered the match confident his team would score. His primary focus was on defensive organization without instilling a purely defensive mindset in the players. The blend of defensive drills with attacking practice paid off, fostering an offensive approach that proved crucial.
The coach highlighted Sangita’s spectacular opening goal as a turning point, which significantly boosted the team’s belief and momentum. He noted that Sangita has consistently delivered such powerful strikes in training and previous matches.
A Team Effort, Not Solo Brilliance
A key to India’s success was not relying on a single goal-scorer. Chettri emphasized the importance of chance creation and players working together to open space. He pointed out how Pyari Xaxa’s movement, combined with passes from Anju Tamang and Rimpa Haldar, created the opportunity for Sangita’s memorable goal.
The team also prioritized giving valuable game time to promising young talents like Kiran Pisda, Malavika, and Rimpa. Chettri lauded players like Sangita and Ratan, who have overcome personal challenges and dedicated themselves to women’s football, deserving every bit of their success.
The Coach’s Journey
Coaching the national team, Chettri revealed, carries a unique pressure far surpassing club-level gigs. He acknowledged moments where the intensity led him to be overly harsh with players, but he believes such “triggers” can sometimes bring out their best performance. These experiences, he noted, are simply part of the coaching process at this elite level.
“The Bottom of Another Mountain”
After the historic win, Chettri delivered a profound message to his team: “You might be on top of this mountain but it’s the bottom of another.” This philosophy, stemming from his own background in the hills, encourages continuous learning and growth, reminding the team that qualification is a step, not the final destination.
Building for the Future
Looking ahead to the Asian Cup and beyond, Chettri stressed the need for sustained support and recognition for the women’s team, mirroring the attention given to the men’s side. He envisions fans singing their names in the stadium, creating an atmosphere of true appreciation.
Strategic exposure is also paramount. Chettri advocates for playing friendly matches against diverse international opponents, especially physical teams from African nations, to prepare for the varied challenges of the Asian Cup. Early acclimatization at tournament venues, as was done successfully in Thailand, will also be vital. While content with current facilities, he believes better infrastructure can only enhance the team’s growth.
- India’s qualification for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 was an emotional victory for coach Crispin Chettri.
- The team’s success was built on a balanced strategy of defensive organization and an attacking mindset, with multiple players contributing goals.
- Chettri’s philosophy emphasizes continuous growth, viewing each achievement as the base of a new challenge.
- Future development requires increased support, recognition, and strategic international exposure against diverse opponents.
The Indian women’s football team now looks forward to tackling the next “mountain,” aiming to make a significant impact on the Asian stage and inspire a new generation of players.
