The Indian women’s national football team is preparing for a significant milestone as they prepare to play international matches in Kolkata for the first time in their history. The
These encounters represent a major step for the squad, which is currently ranked 69th in the world, as they look to challenge themselves against 27th-ranked Russia. The upcoming series marks the team's return to action following their successful campaign in June, where they secured their sixth SAFF Women's Championship title.
A New Chapter in West Bengal
While the Indian team has played in West Bengal once before—during the 2016 SAFF Women's Championship in Siliguri—this will be their inaugural international appearance in the city of Kolkata. The Russian side, meanwhile, returns to Indian soil for the first time since their participation in the 1994 Jayalalitha Cup held in Chennai.
History between the two nations is limited, with these upcoming friendlies serving as the third and fourth meetings between the sides. Previous encounters have taken place at neutral venues, including a 0-8 loss for India at the 2021 Turkish Women's Cup and a 0-2 defeat at the Pink Ladies Cup in the UAE earlier this year.
Focus on Development and Experience
Head coach
Chettri highlighted that the experience of playing in front of a passionate Kolkata crowd is a vital component of the players' development. By facing a top-tier side like Russia, the coaching staff aims to build the necessary habits and resilience required to compete consistently at the international level. The team continues its preparations in the city as they look forward to the two-match series next month.
