By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 21: Meghalaya’s Sanfida Nongrum has been named in India’s 26-member squad that will take part in AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia next month.
Sanfida was part of the Indian team that travelled to Turkey in January for several closed-door friendlies against club sides and before heading to Australia 10 days ago as India readied itself for the continental competition. She featured in several of those friendlies but they don’t count as international matches.
Even getting this far, however, has meant that she has made history as no Meghalayan woman has played for the senior national team yet.
Yesterday she was officially named in the Indian squad by coach Amelia Valverde. Sanfida, known as Polly, is one of six uncapped players in the squad and is among the youngest of her team mates – she and two others are 20 years old.
Commenting on the announcement on social media, Meghalaya Football Association President Hamletson Dohling described it as a proud moment for the state and a historical moment. Addressing Sanfida directly, he added, “Your journey, hard work and belief have brought you here. You carry not just the tricolour but the hopes and dreams of so many young girls back home who now know that this stage is possible. Wishing you strength, confidence and a tournament to remember.”
Placed in Group C, the Blue Tigresses will begin their campaign against Vietnam on 4 March at the Perth Rectangular Stadium at 4:30pm India time, followed by a meeting against Japan on 7 March at the same time and venue.
The last group stage match will be against Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) on 10 March at the Western Sydney Stadium at 2:30pm India time.
