Blue Tigresses Begin Strategic Europe Tour for Asian Cup Prep

By: WE Staff | Thursday, 20 November 2025

• India to tour Europe from Nov 24-Dec 2, 2025, as preparation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026
• Three matches scheduled: Kosovo, North Macedonia, and a top Macedonian club
• Key players return, including Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa

India’s senior women’s football team will undertake a crucial European tour from November 24 to December 2, 2025, as part of their preparation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia. The Blue Tigresses will play three matches against Kosovo, North Macedonia, and a leading Macedonian club during the FIFA international window.

The tour comes at a vital moment, following India’s historic qualification on merit for the Asian Cup after topping their group in the qualifiers. Ranked 63rd in the world, India aims to stabilise its ranking and rebuild momentum after an October window that saw a seven-spot drop following a loss to Nepal. Carefully chosen opponents, including Kosovo (93) and North Macedonia (137), are expected to offer competitive exposure without risking further ranking setbacks.

Head Coach Crispin Chettri has named 25-player probables, signalling a focus on repairing defensive frailties and diversifying the attack. The return of forwards Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa is expected to add pace and depth, while experienced midfielders will provide the anchor for tactical restructuring. Kosovo, regarded as a rising mid-tier European side, will serve as India’s key benchmark for tempo, compactness, and discipline. At the same time, the match against Macedonian league leaders ZFK Brera Tiverija will provide high-tempo, professional-level intensity and potential scouting opportunities for Indian players.

As the AFC Women’s Asian Cup draws closer, the European tour is set to play a decisive role in shaping India’s tactical identity and confidence ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification pathway.