India vs Iraq AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 saw a clinical performance from the Blue Tigresses as they registered a commanding 5-0 win at the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium in Thailand on July 2, 2025. This result solidifies India’s place at the top of Group B with nine points from three matches and an incredible goal difference of +22.

In their third Group B match of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, India vs Iraq AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 turned into another showcase of Indian dominance. Sangita Basfore (14’), Manisha Kalyan (44’), Karthika Angamuthu (48’), Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi (68’), and Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi (80’) found the back of the net as India extended their unbeaten run.

First-Half Control and Composure

From the first whistle, India dictated play. In the India vs Iraq AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 match, the midfield trio kept possession ticking and created numerous chances. The opening goal came in the 14th minute through a corner from Sanju. Iraq goalkeeper Khalat Alzebari failed to clear the danger, and Sangita headed home.

Manisha Kalyan, who had already struck the bar earlier, doubled India’s lead in the 44th minute. Her low shot, though not powerful, slipped through Iraq’s defensive line and beat the flat-footed keeper, giving India a 2-0 cushion before halftime.

Indian team celebrating goal scored against Iraq

Second-Half Brilliance

Iraq replaced their goalkeeper for the second half, but India remained relentless. Just three minutes in, Karthika Angamuthu scored the goal of the match, lobbing the ball from over 25 yards to beat the new keeper Faeza Mahmood. In this India vs Iraq AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 clash, this goal highlighted India’s tactical sharpness and awareness.

India’s fourth came through Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi in the 68th minute. Her long-range effort added to the tally, showing India’s growing confidence in shooting from distance. Substitute Ratanbala Devi rounded off the scoring in the 80th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after her initial shot was saved.

Clean Sheet and Strong Momentum

India’s defense, led by Elangbam Panthoi Chanu in goal, remained solid throughout. The team has now scored 22 goals in three matches without conceding any — an extraordinary run in the India vs Iraq AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 campaign.

With Thailand set to play Mongolia later, all eyes now turn to the crucial India vs Thailand match on July 5. Only the group winner will progress, making it a virtual final for the top spot in Group B.

Full-Time Score: India 5-0 Iraq

India Starting XI: Elangbam Panthoi Chanu (GK), Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi (Purnima Kumari 70’), Sangita Basfore (Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi 46’), Sanju (C), Anju Tamang (Grace Dangmei 46’), Karthika Angamuthu (Priyadharshini 77’), Martina Thokchom, Manisha Kalyan (Pyari Xaxa 61’), Rimpa Haldar, Lynda Kom Serto.