Russia too strong for India

Fri, 09 Oct, 2026

Russia too strong for India

Kolkata: India suffered a 4-0 defeat to Russia in their women’s international friendly at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Thursday.

Iana Sheina gave Russia the lead shortly before the break before substitute Kira Petukhova struck twice in five second-half minutes, with Iana Svistunova completing the victory nine minutes from time.

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#U17WAC Qualifiers - MD2 Results & Reports

Fri, 09 Oct, 2026

#U17WAC Qualifiers - MD2 Results & Reports

Kuala Lumpur: It will be battles to the finish following the conclusion of Matchday Two of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027™ Qualifiers on Thursday.

All eight groups will be decided on Sunday, with only the group winners advancing to join the quartet of teams that have qualified directly as the top four finishers from 2026: defending champions DPR Korea, runners-up Japan, and semi-finalists Australia and China PR.

Stay updated on all the action with the-AFC.com.

Player to watch: Mehdi Taremi (IR Iran)

Thu, 08 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Mehdi Taremi (IR Iran)

Kuala Lumpur: Talismanic striker Mehdi Taremi will look to end more than 50 years of AFC Asian Cup™ near-misses and disappointment for the Islamic Republic of Iran in Saudi Arabia 2027™ when the widely-travelled forward seeks to lead his nation to their first title since 1976.

The 34-year-old is already considered one of his nation’s finest-ever players, forging a successful career at the highest level in European club football as well as scoring at the FIFA World Cup.

Japan consolidate as Asia’s best

Thu, 08 Oct, 2026

Japan consolidate as Asia’s best

Kuala Lumpur: Japan strengthened their position as the top side in Asia following the latest updates to the FIFA World Ranking released on Wednesday.

The East Asian nation stayed in 17th spot after playing four matches in the September-October international window where they won against Uruguay, Venezuela and New Zealand as well as drawing with Ecuador.

Player to watch: Musa Al Taamari (Jordan)

Wed, 07 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Musa Al Taamari (Jordan)

Kuala Lumpur: Musa Al Taamari played a starring role in Jordan’s historic run at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ and the dynamic forward will once again be expected to lead their challenge at Saudi Arabia 2027.

Blessed with pace, close control and the ability to take on defenders, Al Taamari has developed into one of Asia’s most recognisable attacking players and is a key figure for both club and country.

Donis proud of Green Falcons’ growth

Wed, 07 Oct, 2026

Donis proud of Green Falcons’ growth

Jeddah: Head coach Georgios Donis praised his players’ commitment and development after Saudi Arabia defeated the United Arab Emirates 2-0 to clinch the Gulf Cup 2026 title on Tuesday.

Early goals from Hammam Al Hammami and Feras Al Brikan secured the hosts’ fourth crown, with Donis delighted at how his side overcame the challenges they had faced throughout the tournament.