India’s senior women’s national football team, the Blue Tigresses, continued their impressive form in Turkey with a convincing 2-0 victory over Russian side Zvezda-2005 Perm in a friendly match on Wednesday. The game took place at the S&B Sports Football Complex in Serik, Antalya, marking their fifth preparatory fixture ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026.
Anju Tamang opened the scoring as early as the 9th minute, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack to put India ahead. The team maintained control throughout, defending solidly against the Russian outfit’s attempts to equalize. It was left to Linda Kom Sertto to seal the win in the 89th minute with a clinical finish, sparking celebrations among the players and staff.
This triumph is the Blue Tigresses’ third friendly win in Turkey. Prior to this, they edged out German team Hertha BSC Frauen 1-0, thanks to Grace Dangmei’s goal in the 37th minute, and played out a goalless draw against WFC Spartak Moscow in their opening match of a four-game series.
Head coach Langam Chaoba Singh’s squad is fine-tuning strategies in Antalya, focusing on tactical discipline and attacking flair. The team will wrap up their Turkish stint with a final friendly against Romania’s FFK Sixzereda Mircuria Siuc on February 7 before departing for Australia on February 10.
In the Asian Cup, India kicks off their Group C campaign against Vietnam on March 4 at Perth Rectangular Stadium, followed by Japan on March 7 in Perth and Chinese Taipei on March 10 in Sydney. These friendlies are crucial for building momentum and ironing out weaknesses ahead of the continental showdown.
The Blue Tigresses’ disciplined performance underscores their growing confidence. With a blend of youth and experience, they aim to make a strong statement in Australia, building on recent successes to challenge Asia’s elite.