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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 58236, member: 636"]
Former Indian goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan expressed enthusiasm about the women's national team earning qualification for the 2026 AFC Asia Cup in Australia. The achievement represents the first time the team advanced through qualifying rounds since their 2003 appearance. The U20 squad simultaneously secured its spot in the continental tournament after a two-decade absence.

Chauhan predicts the women's squad will reach the FIFA World Cup ahead of their male counterparts. She retired from her 17-year playing career earlier this year after becoming the first Indian woman to compete in European football with West Ham United. Her academic pursuits at Loughborough University complemented her athletic achievements through sports management studies.

The former athlete established the She Kicks initiative through her foundation to develop opportunities for female players. Her academy aims to expand into smaller cities across India with additional sponsor support. Chauhan views this program as her lasting contribution to advancing women's football development nationwide.
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