Amelia Valverde appointed as coach of senior Indian Women’s Football Team

Yes, on January 20, 2026, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced the appointment of Costa Rican manager Amelia Valverde as the new head coach of the senior Indian women's national football team, also known as the Blue Tigresses. The 39-year-old has already joined the team at their training camp in Antalya, Turkiye, where they are preparing for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026, set to take place in Australia starting in March.

Valverde brings extensive international experience, having previously led the Costa Rica women's national team to two FIFA Women's World Cups (2015 and 2023) and achieving success in Mexico's Liga MX Femenil, including a championship title with CF Monterrey in 2021. She will be supported by her familiar staff, including goalkeeping coach Eli Ávila and strength and conditioning coach José Sánchez, while integrating with the existing Indian coaching team of Crispin Chettri, Priya PV, and Mario Aguiar.

This move aims to bolster India's performance in upcoming qualifiers and the Asian Cup, drawing on Valverde's track record in women's football development.