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AIFF faces sharp criticism after India’s women’s Asian Cup campaign was marred by kit blunders, poor planning and controversial decisions, sparking calls for accountability.
Indian Women’s Team head coach Amelia Valverde (AIFF Media)
The Indian women’s team endured a turbulent campaign at the Asian Cup in Australia.
But the real storm has erupted off the pitch, with Valanka Alemao calling out the All India Football Federation for a “series of blunders” that embarrassed the nation.
‘Huge Embarrassment’ for Indian Football
In a strongly worded letter to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, Alemao did not hold back.
“Questions must be asked, and answers sought from those responsible for the series of blunders concerning the team, as it has caused huge embarrassment to the country at large,” she wrote.
Among the most glaring issues? Ill-fitting jerseys that forced players to publicly appeal for proper kits just days before the tournament.
The situation was so dire that local organisers reportedly had to step in to provide suitable gear.
Questions Over Coaching Appointment
Alemao also raised serious concerns about the late appointment of head coach Amelia Valverde.
“Who decided to appoint Amelia Valverde… just six weeks before the tournament?” she questioned, pointing out that the decision allegedly bypassed both the Executive Committee and the Women’s Football Committee.
She further questioned the lack of transparency in the process, asking whether proper procedures, such as inviting applications, were followed.
Preparation Under Scrutiny
The criticism didn’t stop there.
Alemao highlighted what she described as poor planning in the team’s build-up, including limited and underwhelming friendly matches.
“The team played only three friendly internationals… and against mediocre club sides which got them no benefit,” she noted.
She also questioned logistical decisions, including the choice to send the team to Turkey instead of China for preparations.
On-Field Struggles Mirror Off-Field Chaos
India’s campaign itself reflected the chaos.
After a spirited 1-2 loss to Vietnam, the team struggled badly, suffering defeats to Japan and Chinese Taipei to exit the tournament without a win.
Alemao finally urged for an Executive Committee meeting to address the issues “threadbare” and take action against those responsible.
(with PTI inputs)
March 23, 2026, 11:31 PM IST
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