Sangita Basfore views the AFC Women’s Asian Cup not as the destination but as a stepping stone to the FIFA Women’s World Cup. From her decisive goals in qualification to India’s structured preparation in Australia, the midfielder remains focused on taking the Blue Tigresses one step closer to the global stage.

The AIFF convened a meeting with ISL clubs and FSDL representatives on August 7 to outline the 2025–26 season structure. A key proposal was hosting the Super Cup before the ISL, ensuring season completion by May 31 and preserving AFC competition eligibility.

A debut goal from Moroccan forward Hamid Ahadad proved the difference as Emami East Bengal FC overcame a stubborn Namdhari FC 1-0 in the Durand Cup. Niraj Kumar’s heroics kept Namdhari in the game, but the Red and Gold Brigade’s persistence paid off to keep them top of Group A.

The Indian senior men’s team will compete in the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 in Dushanbe, facing tough opposition from Iran, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan in Group B.