India’s women’s football team, popularly known as the Blue Tigresses, went down 0-2 against hosts Kenya in the semi-final of the FIFA Series 2026 at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
Goals from Martha Emedot in the second minute and Tereza Obunya in the 55th minute sealed a comfortable win for Kenya, who dominated the match from start to finish. With this result, India will now face Malawi in the third-place playoff on April 15, while Kenya will take on Australia in the final.
Early blow and missed control
India’s problems began almost immediately as Kenya took the lead in just the second minute. Fasila Omondi created the chance with a dangerous run down the left and a cross into the box. Goalkeeper Shreya Hooda managed to get a touch but could not clear it properly, allowing Martha Emedot to score from close range. Kenya continued to press hard and nearly doubled their lead within minutes. Shalyne Opisa came close twice, but Hooda made an important save, and another effort went just wide. India struggled to settle into the game as Kenya controlled both possession and physical battles across the field. The visitors found it difficult to build attacking moves or create clear chances.
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Injury setback and second-half finish
India’s situation worsened in the 14th minute when captain Pyari Xaxa suffered a head injury after a collision with Ruth Ingosi. She had to be taken off and shifted to the hospital, although she remained conscious. Kenya maintained their dominance in the second half and continued to create chances. Their efforts paid off again in the 55th minute when Airin Madalina played a precise through ball to Tereza Obunya, who finished calmly past Hooda to make it 2-0.
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India tried to regroup in the later stages, but Kenya stayed organised and strong in defence. One positive moment for India came late in the match when Jasoda Munda made her international debut. Despite the defeat, India will look to finish the tournament on a high when they take on Malawi in the third-place playoff.
