India vs Kenya Match Preview, Predictions, Lineups, Timings & How to Watch — FIFA Women’s Series 2026

After a bruising 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, where India lost all three group stage games and conceded 16 goals, the Indian women’s football team travels to Nairobi for the FIFA Women’s Series 2026. Their first opponent: Kenya — on home turf. The stakes couldn’t be higher for a team desperate for momentum.

India vs Kenya Match Info at a Glance

Team News & Context

India head into the clash without key players Manisha Kalyan, Panthoi Chanu, and Sweety Devi — the latter two injured during the Asian Cup. Coach Crispin Chettri, back for a second stint, will need his remaining experienced heads to step up.

Kenya, meanwhile, qualified for the 2026 Women’s AFCON and are using this series as preparation. Under coach Beldine Odemba, they will defend deep and look to hurt India on the counter. They are, however, winless in their last four competitive fixtures.

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Predicted Lineups

India (4-2-3-1): Shreya Hooda (GK); Juli Kishan, Nirmala Devi, Shilky Devi, Martina Thokchom; Aveka Singh, Pringka Devi; Sanfida Nongrum, Karishma Shirvoikar, Lynda Kom; Pyari Xaxa

Kenya (4-2-3-1): Annedy Kundu (GK); Ruth Ingosi, Vivian Nasaka, Elizabeth Ochaka, Enez Mango; Martha Amunyolete, Fasila Adhiambo; Lorna Nyarinda, Mwanalima Adam Jereko, Nglay Mukhwana; Valerie Nekesa

Players to Watch

Pyari Xaxa (India) — The 28-year-old forward has 18 international goals and, with Manisha absent, this is her moment to lead the line and make her mark under a new coach.

Mwanalima Adam Jereko (Kenya) — The danger woman for the Harambee Starlets, she scored four goals in Kenya’s final four matches of 2025 and will look to torment India’s backline.

Prediction

India should edge this one. Kenya’s resilience makes it a contest, but with home advantage on India’s side being absent, a narrow India win (2-0) feels right — with Xaxa and Nongrum the likeliest names on the scoresheet.

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