AIFF women’s committee head Valanka Alemao has demanded answers after a “series of blunders” marred India’s Women’s Asian Cup campaign in Australia. The issues, ranging from ill-fitting jerseys to questionable administrative decisions, have triggered serious concerns over the federation’s functioning.
India’s on-field campaign saw moments of promise, including a competitive 1-2 loss to Vietnam, but defeats to Japan and Chinese Taipei meant they exited the tournament winless. However, the bigger controversy unfolded off the pitch, with players even forced to raise concerns publicly over basic facilities. In a letter to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, Alemao called for accountability. Speaking in the letter, she said:
“…questions must be asked and answers sought from those responsible for the series of blunders concerning the team as it has caused huge embarrassment to the country at large.”
She also urged immediate action and a detailed review of decisions taken ahead of the tournament.
“Who decided to appoint Amelia Valverde of Costa Rica as the head coach along with her two assistants in January 2026 by sidelining Crispin Chhetri just six weeks before the tournament? What was the procedure that was followed for her appointment?”
“In the Women’s Committee Meeting in December 2025, I had mentioned several areas that needed to be attended to with regard to preparations, travel, stay, kits, etc. But everything was goofed up… Who decided to out-source all arrangements?”
Alemao further alleged that key bodies, including the Executive Committee and Women’s Committee, were not consulted on major decisions, raising questions over transparency.
WHAT WAS THE JERSEY CONTROVERSY?
One of the most striking issues during the tournament was the jersey fiasco, which highlighted deeper administrative lapses. The Indian team reportedly received ill-fitting kits just days before their opening match in Australia, forcing players to seek urgent intervention.
The consignment was delayed initially, and when it finally arrived at the team hotel, players found the jerseys were of incorrect sizes. In response, all 26 members of the squad signed a letter to AIFF officials, expressing frustration over the situation and its impact on their preparation and morale.
“…what happened to the kits provided to the Indian team? Who sent ill-fitting jerseys meant for junior players to Australia. Two days before the first match, the players had to ensure such bizarre shocks.”
“News spread like wildfire that the local organisers helped the team secure proper jerseys. These questions must be raised and those who are responsible for such blunders which has brought shame to the nation must be taken to task.”
Alemao also criticised the team’s preparation, pointing out that India played limited friendlies against weaker opposition and questioned logistical decisions such as training locations and outsourced arrangements.
With India finishing bottom of the group after three losses and conceding heavily, the focus has now shifted to administrative accountability. Alemao’s letter has intensified pressure on the AIFF to address governance issues and ensure such lapses are not repeated.
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