The India U20 women’s football team kept their qualification hopes alive with a 3-1 win over Chinese Taipei in their final Group C match of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Pathum Thani, Thailand, on Wednesday.
Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam scored twice, including a late penalty, while Bhumika Devi Khumukcham opened the scoring to guide India to their first win in the competition since 2004. Chinese Taipei managed a stoppage-time consolation through substitute Kao Hsin.
India finished third in Group C with three points from three matches. Their progression to the quarter-finals now depends on the outcome of the Group B match between Jordan and Uzbekistan. A draw would allow India to advance as one of the best third-placed teams, while any other result would eliminate them.
After heavy defeats to Japan and Australia in their opening matches, India started strongly and controlled the early exchanges. Their intent paid off in the 26th minute when Bhumika finished from close range after a cross from Sibani caused confusion in the box.
Sibani added a second shortly after, beating her marker before striking a left-footed effort past the goalkeeper to double India’s advantage.
India continued to press forward, creating several chances through Remi Thokchom and Sulanjana Raul, but were unable to extend their lead before the break. Goalkeeper Ribansi Jamu, making her first appearance in the tournament, made key saves to deny Chinese Taipei a way back into the match.
In the second half, Chinese Taipei showed improvement and created a few chances, but India maintained control for most periods. A header from Sibani in the 72nd minute struck the crossbar, denying her an earlier second goal.
India sealed the result in the 87th minute when Sibani converted from the penalty spot after a handball inside the box. Chinese Taipei scored late in stoppage time, but it had little impact on the outcome.
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