New Delhi: The decision was taken at the AFC Women’s Football Committee meeting. It may be recalled that in February, the AFC Women’s Football Committee had recommended India to host the tourney.
The last time India hosted the continental showpiece was in 1979 when it finished as the runners-up.
In a letter to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), AFC General Secretary Dato Windsor John wrote, “The Committee awarded the hosting rights of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2022 Finals to the All India Football Federation.”
AIFF president Praful Patel was happy with India getting the hosting rights and hopes it will help develop women’s football in the country.
“I need to thank the AFC for finding us suitable to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2022.
“The tournament will galvanise the aspiring women players and bring in a holistic social revolution as far as women’s football in the country is concerned,” Patel said.
The tournament will feature 12 teams, expanded from the previous slot of eight teams. India will qualify directly by virtue of being the host nation.
The event will also serve as the final qualification tournament for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the hosts of which, will be announced on June 25.
