Tough Road Ahead: India Drawn With Japan, Vietnam & Chinese Taipei In AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Group Of Death
The stage is set for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, and the draw has sparked waves of excitement—and concern—for Indian football fans. The Indian women’s national football team has been clubbed in Group B alongside Asian heavyweights Japan, formidable Vietnam, and the ever-unpredictable Chinese Taipei. With the tournament slated to kick off in early 2026, this “group of death” has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling and challenging campaign.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026: A Glimpse Into The Group Stage
The group-stage draw was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with 12 participating teams divided into three groups of four. India, entering the tournament with a mission to rewrite their continental legacy, finds itself facing a brutal test of strength and stamina right from the outset.
Group B — The Line-Up:
- 🇯🇵 Japan – Former World Champions (2011), four-time Asian Cup winners, and currently ranked No. 8 in FIFA rankings.
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam – FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifiers and rising force in Southeast Asia.
- 🇹🇼 Chinese Taipei – A team with past continental glory and a knack for springing surprises.
- 🇮🇳 India – Hosts of the 2022 edition and eager to prove their mettle on the continental stage.
India’s Challenge: From Underdogs To Warriors
India’s recent progress in women’s football has been steady but slow. The Blue Tigresses are currently ranked 66th in the FIFA Women’s Rankings and face an uphill battle against higher-ranked, more seasoned opponents.
India’s Recent Form:
- Finished 3rd in the 2024 SAFF Championship
- Showed promise in international friendlies but lacked consistency
- Key players like Dangmei Grace, Manisha Kalyan, and Sangita Basfore are expected to lead the charge
Coach Thomas Dennerby, who helped shape India’s performance in the previous edition, acknowledged the challenge:
“It’s a very tough group, no doubt. But this is a great opportunity for our girls to raise the bar. We’re not here to just participate; we’re here to compete.”
Spotlight On Group Rivals
Japan (Nadeshiko Japan)
- FIFA Rank: 8
- Style of Play: Technical, fast-paced, high pressing
- Players to Watch: Yui Hasegawa, Mina Tanaka
- Track Record: 2011 FIFA World Cup Winners, 2018 AFC Asian Cup Champions
Vietnam
- FIFA Rank: 34
- Gained attention during the 2023 World Cup for their gritty performances
- Key Strengths: Team chemistry, compact defense
- Star Player: Huynh Nhu (Forward)
🇹🇼 Chinese Taipei
- FIFA Rank: 42
- AFC Women’s Asian Cup winners in the past (1977, 1979, 1981)
- Known for unpredictable attacking play
- Players to Watch: Su Yu-Hsuan, Lin Ya-han
Key Fixtures To Watch (Tentative Schedule)
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 15, 2026 | India vs Japan | TBD |
| Jan 18, 2026 | India vs Chinese Taipei | TBD |
| Jan 21, 2026 | India vs Vietnam | TBD |
The top two teams from each group and two best third-placed teams will advance to the quarterfinals, making every match critical for India’s qualification hopes.
Broadcast & Live Streaming
While official broadcasting details are yet to be confirmed, the tournament is expected to be streamed live across:
- India: Sports18, JioCinema (expected)
- Internationally: AFC YouTube Channel, local sports broadcasters
Expert Take: Is Progress Possible For India?
While Japan remains the clear group favorite, the real contest for India lies in matches against Vietnam and Chinese Taipei. With structured preparation camps, exposure tours, and a focus on mental and physical fitness, India could well spring a surprise and fight for a place in the knockouts.
Former Indian captain Bembem Devi weighed in:
“It’s a tough group, yes. But our girls have heart. They’ve played against top teams before. What matters is how we rise to the occasion.”
The Road Ahead
India’s campaign in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 is not just about advancing to the next round — it’s about proving that Indian women’s football belongs on Asia’s biggest stage. Facing giants like Japan and skillful sides like Vietnam and Taipei will be a stern test of character, but it also provides the perfect setting for new stars to be born.
Can the Blue Tigresses roar loud enough to shake up Group B? One thing’s for sure — Asia, and the world, will be watching.
