The opponent of the Vietnamese women's national team encountered an embarrassing issue just before the match day, prompting players to submit a petition.

On the eve of the match against the Vietnamese women's national team on March 4 (18:00), the Indian women's national team confronted a significant issue concerning their playing kits.

According to the Times of India, the Indian women's football team currently in Australia for the 2026 Women's Asian Cup was forced to urgently purchase playing kits locally, after the set sent by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) was originally made for youth teams and "did not fit at least 80% of the 26 players".

Sources indicate the shipment from New Delhi was initially delayed due to licensing procedures, causing the team to request a postponement of equipment checks and official photo sessions. However, two days before the crucial opening match, when the final shipment arrived at the team's hotel, players discovered the kits were too small and unsuitable for the majority of the squad.

Veteran players such as Sweety Devi, Manisha Kalyan, Grace Dangmei, Sangita Basfore, Pathoi Chanu, Sanju, Pyari Xaxa, and Shreya Hooda sent an official letter to the AIFF, demanding urgent intervention.

"In recent days, players and the coaching staff have faced numerous difficulties due to the lack of proper attire during preparations," the players wrote in the signed letter to the AIFF.

"The arrival of ill-fitting competition kits at this critical juncture further affects morale and disrupts our focus in the final days before the match. Representing India on the international stage requires professional standards, including properly sized competition and training kits," the Indian women players emphasized.

The AIFF stated it had urgently sourced supplies locally, with 55 playing kits, including two sets in light blue and red, purchased from an Italian company with stock available in Perth (Australia).

"Some players reported the kits did not fit, and we have addressed the matter," a senior AIFF official said, adding that the national team currently lacks an official kit sponsor. "The kits (with names and numbers) will be ready one day before the match. We have immediately provided correctly sized competition and training kits for all players and coaching staff," the AIFF official stated.

Despite the disappointment, the players affirmed they "remain fully committed to representing the country with pride and will give their all on the pitch."

Meanwhile, Indian newspapers expressed dissatisfaction and criticized the AIFF for a serious oversight.

Under head coach Amelia Valverde's guidance, the Indian team will face a major challenge in Group C, as they are the lowest-ranked team among strong opponents including Japan, Vietnam, and Chinese Taipei.

Valverde's 26-player list shows a balance of youth and experience. The squad includes 6 players yet to earn a national team cap, set to make their senior international debut. Alongside them is an experienced core with 3 players boasting over 50 caps and 3 others having surpassed 35 international appearances.

View 2026 Women's Championship news

View 2026 Women's Championship schedule

View 2026 Women's Championship standings

View 2026 Women's Championship results