India Set to Face Nepal in Final Tri-Nation Women’s Friendly in Shillong
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Shillong, October 27, 2025 — The Indian senior women’s football team will lock horns with Nepal in the final fixture of the Tri-Nation Women’s International Friendlies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong, on Monday at 18:00 IST.
For head coach Crispin Chettri, the match offers an opportunity to recover from the 0–2 loss to IR Iran in their previous game and continue the team’s preparations for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026. It will also be a vital test of squad depth, with several young players expected to feature.
Chettri Aims to Build Depth and Confidence
Reflecting on the team’s defeat to Iran, Chettri said during Sunday’s pre-match press conference, “Against Iran, we weren’t at our best, but we treated that match as a learning experience. Now we know what it takes to prepare against more physical sides. Nepal are a completely different team, so we’re looking for a better performance tomorrow.”
He added that the fixture would be used to give younger players international exposure, stating, “We’ll also be giving opportunities to some younger players so that by the time we play the Asian Cup, we have a core group of 30–35 players ready.”
The squad for the Nepal clash includes rising talents like midfielder Julan Nongmaithem, who recently captained the Indian U-17 side to AFC qualification, defender Heirangkhongjam Linda Chanu, and goalkeeper Adrija Sarkhel.
Meanwhile, forward Manisha Kalyan remains sidelined due to illness and will not feature in the fixture. She is currently under medical observation and is expected to make a full recovery soon.
Tactical Adjustments and Team Mindset
Chettri emphasised that the focus will be on tactical discipline and maintaining possession. “With Nepal, it will be competitive. Tactically, we might try something different, but our core concept remains — to build from the back, progress through possession, and create scoring opportunities rather than relying on long balls,” he said.
He also acknowledged Nepal’s attacking prowess, led by Sabitra Bhandari, saying, “They have players who are dangerous on counters. We must improve in midfield, control transitions better, and minimise mistakes.”
Pyari Xaxa: “We’re Ready to Give Our Best”
Indian forward Pyari Xaxa, one of the team’s senior attacking players, echoed her coach’s optimism and determination. “Our team is aggressive and eager to perform against Nepal. It will be an exciting game. We’ll enjoy it and give our best to win,” she said. “Everyone is being trusted to play their part, and I’ll do my best to help the team succeed.”
Nepal Ready for the Challenge
Nepal’s head coach Nabin Neupane expressed confidence in his team’s readiness despite a grueling schedule. “The match will be hard for us physically, and fatigue is a factor due to travel and the tight schedule. But all our players are fit, and we’ll give our best for the full 90 minutes,” he said.
Nepal suffered a 0–3 defeat to IR Iran on Friday, conceding all three goals in just eight minutes of the second half. Neupane noted that his team has focused on improving defensive structure and finishing. “We’ve analysed India’s recent games and worked on structure, possession, and attacking opportunities. Matches against India are always competitive, and we’re confident our team is ready,” he added.
A South Asian Rivalry Renewed
India and Nepal share one of the most competitive rivalries in South Asian women’s football, with both sides regularly meeting in SAFF Championships and regional tournaments. Monday’s match promises to deliver another fierce contest, offering valuable international exposure for the Blue Tigresses as they gear up for next year’s continental championship.
The match will be streamed live for free on plus.fifa.com.
India Squad vs Nepal
Goalkeepers: Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Adrija Sarkhel
Defenders: Heirangkhongjam Linda Chanu, Hemam Shilky Devi, Kiran Pisda, Malati Munda, Martina Thokchom, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, Sorokhaibam Ranjana Chanu
Midfielders: Julan Nongmaithem, Lisham Babina Devi, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Sangita Basfore, Santosh
Forwards: Grace Dangmei, Karishma Purushottam Shirvoikar, Lynda Kom Serto, Mousumi Murmu, Pyari Xaxa, Rimpa Haldar
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The upcoming clash between India and Nepal is more than just a friendly — it’s a test of resilience, adaptability, and preparation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026. For the Indian women’s team, this game provides a crucial opportunity to experiment with combinations, give young players confidence, and regain momentum after a tough start to the series.
If the Blue Tigresses can translate their training into composure and control on the pitch, Monday’s fixture could mark a turning point in their road to continental success.