India U20 vs Japan U20: Young Tigresses Brace For Tough AFC Women’s Asian Cup Opener Against Young Nadeshiko

Thailand, 1 April 2026. India's U20 women's team begin their Asian Cup return. They face Japan on Thursday, April 2, in Thailand. The venue is Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani. Kick-off is 18:30 IST, streamed live on FanCode. This match ends India's 20-year wait for qualification.

Head coach Joakim Alexandersson wants realism and ambition together. "We are very much aware that we are new to this scene right now with the India team. We know we are facing tough opponents and we have respect for them," said the Swede.

He also underlined India's targets for the event. "But also, we have a mindset that we want to make it through this group and qualify for the World Cup. That would be fantastic for the whole country," he added, before the Japan opener.

Three-month build-up across continents for India

India's preparation has covered different countries and long camps. "We have been together continuously for three months," Alexandersson said. "Before that, we had friendly games in Kazakhstan. We have been to Sweden for a one-month camp, and we invited Uzbekistan to India as well."

He feels the group has grown during this period. "So the preparation has been good. I think we are ready for this tournament in a good way. Since the qualifiers in Myanmar, we have had some very focused work. We have evolved considerably — technically, tactically, and also mentally as a group."

Japan enter as six-time champions and favourites

Meanwhile, Japan stands as India's first opponent and major test. They are the record six-time U20 Asian Cup champions. The Young Nadeshiko also won the world title in 2018. Their head coach, Akira Ijiri, set clear plans. "Our goal is clear. We want to break through the group stage and win the World Cup."

Group C schedule and qualification stakes

India will play in Group C with Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei. Their second match is against Australia on April 5. They face Chinese Taipei on April 8. The top two teams and the two best third-placed sides reach the quarter-finals. The final four secure FIFA U20 Women's World Cup Poland 2026 spots.