The 2026 edition of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be the first time that India will qualify for the competition on merit rather than invitation or hosting.
India remained undefeated in the qualifying group, scoring 24 goals and conceding just one goal in the four matches against the likes of Thailand, East Timor, Iraq and Mongolia. The Indian squad has some young talents with huge potential, and it looks like they will go far in this year’s tournament.
Here are five young Indian talents who can lead India to success in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026:
Malavika Prasad: The 22-year-old forward was one of the core players of the Indian Women’s League, Sethu FC, and is considered one of India’s top attacking threats. The Kasargod resident received the Kerala Football Association’s Best Player Award in the women’s category in 2024.
Lynda Kom: Lynda Komi, winner of the Indian Women’s League title with Odisha FC in 2024, will be an exciting prospect to watch at this year’s Women’s Asian Cup. The 20-year-old forward was born in Manipur and played at club level for Odisha FC and Sethu FC.
Sanfida Nonrum: Sanfida Nongrum, currently managing IWL side Garhwal United FC, could be the midfield anchor India need to go far in the tournament. At just 20 years old, Nongrum looks set to be a mainstay for the Indian team in the coming years.
Rimpa Haldar: An athlete turned footballer, Rimpa Haldar made her senior debut for India in 2024. The 21-year-old has played for a number of teams including East Bengal FC, Lord’s FA, Kochi, Sarojini Naidu Orient Sports Club, Police Athletic Club and Nadia district sports authority team. She currently plays for Sribhumi FC.
Shilky Devi Bath: Shilky Devi Hemam is currently regarded as one of India’s best defenders and could be the rock of defense for the Blue Tigresses. The 20-year-old from Manipur was part of the Gokulam Kerala team that sealed the IWL title in 2023 and was named the Indian Women’s League Best Defender in 2024.
Published on March 4, 2026
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