Women's football: Keeper Aditi says India could do well in Asia Cup

Mumbai: Indian woman's football team is optimistic that they could do well in the AFC Asia Cup tournament, goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan, who played her 50th match for India, said on Saturday. The host of the tournament, India's opening game against Iran, had ended up in a goalless draw, PTI reported.

India brought out excellent performance except its forward, who couldn't finish their attacks.

On reaching her 50th game for India, Aditi's said she always dreamed of wearing India's jersey when she was young. She feels that wearing it consistently for years is a privilege, and she is fortunate because of that. She said that there is no substitute for hard work. She had many ups and downs throughout her career, but she is very grateful for all her success.

Her parents were concerned about her playing football as the sport is both mentally and physically demanding. Also, facing society as a girl of sports had difficulties. But, her parents' perspective changed when she got to wear Indian colours.

India is looking to qualify for the tournament's quarterfinals, but they need to knock China out in their next game on Sunday. However, all the semifinalists will qualify for the FIFA World Cup next year, jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand. In addition to that, two more teams from the quarterfinals will also get qualified for FIFA if Australia enters the semis in this tournament, which has a higher probability, PTI reports.

Even if a team loses the quarterfinal matches but wins the playoff matches of the AFC Asian Cup, they will directly qualify for FIFA World Cup. Those who lose in quarters will play the intercontinental playoffs.