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Just a day before the kick-off of the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in India, the hosts were hit by two unnamed positive COVID-19 cases.
While some reported that it was two players others reported it was one player and one support staff. The positive COVID-19 cases has forced the organisers to shift them to a medical facility for isolation.
“Two members of the Indian Women’s Senior National Team for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022 have tested positive for COVID-19, and are currently in isolation at a designated medical care facility,” the All India Football Federation tweeted.
“The AIFF prioritises the health and safety of its players, and are following all the necessary health protocols as have been laid down by the AFC,” the AIFF added in another tweet.
One of the members (a player) would have featured in the starting XI in the campaign opener against Iran, an AIFF source has said.
Hosts India open their campaign in the continental showpiece against Iran at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.
The two positive cases will not threaten the tournament as AIFF president Praful Patel on Monday said that matches will not be cancelled if 13 players are available in each of the two competing teams.
Patel, who is also the chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), said that contingency plans have been put in place to deal with any situation in case participating team members are infected by the virus.
“The affected player or players will be isolated but the teams will be fielded as long as 13 players (in each team) are available,” Praful Patel said.
Meanwhile Japanese media have reported that Arsenal FC striker Mana Iwabuchi tested positive on arrival in India, which would weaken the defending AFC Women’s Asian Cup champions.
The AIFF prioritises the health and safety of its players, and are following all the necessary health protocols as have been laid down by the AFC. (2/2)
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 19, 2022
