In what could be a blow for the Indian women’s national team’s preparation for next year’s Asian Cup, its planned European tour had to be called off due to visa issues.
Sportstar understands that North Macedonia, the country India was scheduled to visit for the November International Window (November 24 to December 2), didn’t approve visas for the Blue Tigresses.
The reason for the rejection is unknown. It is learnt that the Indian team, which had been camping in Kolkata since November 10 at the National Centre of Excellence, even travelled to North Macedonia’s Embassy in New Delhi. But, it had to return empty handed.
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With the Europe tour called off, the national team is looking at alternatives. Travelling to the Philippines is an option being looked at, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
India qualified for the Asian Cup on merit for the first time in history after pulling off an unbeaten qualification campaign, which included beating higher-ranked Thailand.
Since qualifying for the continental tournament, however, the Crispin Chettri-coached side is yet to win a match. It has suffered losses to Iran (0-2) and Nepal (1-2) in October during a Tri-Nation friendly tournament held in Shillong. India also lost to Nepal via penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time in an exhibition match held in Gangtok, Sikkim.
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup is set to take place in Australia next year during March. India is placed in Group C alongside Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Vietnam.
Published on Nov 22, 2025