Amelia Valverde Named Head Coach Of Indian Women’s Football Team Ahead Of 2026 AFC Asian Cup

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of Amelia Valverde as the new head coach of the Indian senior women's national team, marking a significant step in the Blue Tigresses' preparations for the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026.

Valverde, 39, has already linked up with the Indian squad in Antalya, Turkiye, where the team is currently in camp ahead of the continental showpiece scheduled for March. The Costa Rican coach brings with her a wealth of international experience, both at national and club level, having built a strong reputation as one of the most accomplished figures in women's football in the CONCACAF region.

A former professional footballer, Valverde transitioned into coaching in 2011 and quickly

rose through the ranks. She went on to become the longest-serving head coach in the history of the Costa Rican women's national team, leading Las Ticas from 2015 to 2023. During her tenure, Costa Rica qualified for the FIFA Women's World Cup twice - in 2015 and 2023 - which remain the nation's only appearances at the global tournament. Notably, Valverde was just 28 when she took charge at the 2015 World Cup, making her the second-youngest head coach at that edition.

Before assuming the top role, Valverde had served as assistant coach of Costa Rica's senior and U20 women's teams, including during the 2014 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup. Her time with the national side also yielded silverware, as she guided Costa Rica to gold at the 2017 Central American Games, silver at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games, and bronze at the 2019 Pan American Games. Her contributions were recognised when she was named the CONCACAF Female Coach of the Year in 2016.

Following her departure from the Costa Rican setup, Valverde joined Mexican giants CF Monterrey in 2023 and enjoyed remarkable success. In 2024, she scripted history by leading the club to a Bicampeonato, winning both the Liga MX Femenil Clausura and Apertura titles. That same year, she received the Mexican Balón de Oro for best coach in the Liga MX Femenil.

Valverde will be supported by goalkeeping coach Eli Avila and strength and conditioning coach Jose Sanchez, both of whom have previously worked with her at international and club level. Together, the new coaching staff is expected to play a key role in shaping India's campaign as the Blue Tigresses look to make a strong impact at the Asian Cup.