India Women to face Russia Women in Kolkata friendlies on October 8 and 11
India's 69th-ranked women's football team will meet the Russian women's national team in an international friendly at Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on October 8, 2026, the first of two matches between the sides scheduled for October 8 and October 11. The first international clash is listed to start at 18:00 IST, although a separate match detail lists a 7:00 PM IST kickoff.
The fixture arrives after India clinched the SAFF Championship and represents the Blue Tigresses' first visit to Kolkata, described in the report as a debut in the City of Joy. The two nations last met in 1994, and the matches in October mark a long-awaited renewal of that fixture. The report frames Russia as a higher-ranked opponent for India ahead of the two friendlies.
Coach Crispin Chettri's squad has been preparing in Kolkata, with the report highlighting a focus on maintaining defensive shape and deploying attacking options such as Sanfida Nongrum and Sangita Basfore, described as capable of late runs and strong decision-making. The attacking group also includes Lynda Kom, Malavika and Jasoda Munda, who the article says could prove their worth after training sessions with the national camp. The Blue Tigresses have practised at the match venue ahead of the friendlies.
Goalkeepers: Adrija Sarkhel, Monalisha Devi Moirangthem, Nandini
Defenders: Dhurga Perumal, Juli Kishan, Kiran Pisda, Malati Munda, Mousumi Murmu, Purnima Kumari, Ranjana Chanu Sorokhaibam, Shubhangi Singh
Midfielders: Babina Devi Lisham, Baby Sana, Cindy Colney, Priyadharshini Selladurai, Sanfida Nongrum, Sangita Basfore, Santosh
Forwards: Jasoda Munda, Lynda Kom Serto, Malavika P, Renu, Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, Sushmita Jadhav
The report notes Russia played four international fixtures in 2026, winning three of them, and includes a recent victory over China among their results. It reiterates Russia as the higher-ranked side India will face in Kolkata and suggests India could present challenges for the visitors if they play with positive intent and avoid leaving open defensive lines. No telecast information for the October 8 match has been provided in the report.
Both friendlies are scheduled at Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata — the report states the October 8 match will be the first-ever international women's football match at that venue — with the second India vs Russia fixture set for October 11. For further updates the article directs readers to follow Khel Now on social platforms and its mobile apps.