India loses to Kenya in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA Series

The Indian women’s national team suffered a 0-2 defeat to hosts Kenya in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA Series at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday.

Martha Emedot (2′) and Tereza Obunya (55′) scored for the hosts.

Earlier in the day, Australia defeated Malawi 5-0 in the first semi-final. With this result, India will now face Malawi in the third match on April 15, while Kenya will face Australia in the final.

Kenya dominated the match, both physically and tactically, against the Blue Tigresses. The Harambee Starlets seized control from the start, making effective use of the width of the pitch and imposing themselves physically on the park. India struggled with pace and intensity and failed to create clear attacking moves in the match.

Kenya struck early in the second minute. Fasila Omondi burst down the left flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area. Indian goalkeeper Shreya Hooda connected with the first delivery but could not clear the danger. Martha Emedot reacted quickest to the rebound and moved straight to home plate to give the hosts an early advantage.

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Five minutes later the home team almost doubled their lead. Once again Omondi caused problems on the left and sent in another well-aimed cross. Shalyne Opisa met him from close range but Shreya stood tall and denied her with a crucial save. Kenya continued to pile on the pressure and Opisa had another chance shortly afterwards when Leah Andiema delivered a cross. However, the Kenyan attacker’s header went a few centimeters wide of the goal.

India’s problems were compounded in the 14th minute when captain Pyari Xaxa suffered a head injury after colliding with Ruth Ingosi during a dogfight. Pyari was forced to leave and taken to hospital. She remained conscious and is currently receiving medical attention.

Kenya remained the more composed team in the second half and continued to push forward. Perseverance was rewarded again in the 55th minute when Airin Madalina released Tereza Obunyu with a precise through ball. Obunyu made a sharp run between Indian defenders before calmly finishing past Shreya to double the lead.

Crispin Chettri tried to reorganize the Blue Tigresses in the closing stages, but Kenya maintained its defensive discipline and physical superiority. A standout moment for the visitor came in the 87th minute when Jasoda Munda made her international debut as she replaced Babina Devi Lisham in midfield.

Published on April 11, 2026