Mumbai, Jan 19 (PTI) All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Praful Patel on Wednesday interacted with the Indian women's football team ahead of its lung-opener in the AFC Women's Asia Cup and said the players will be paid bonus if the side makes the quarter-finals.

India take on Iran in the tournament opener at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.

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“I want to congratulate each and every one of you for making it to the final squad. We are all proud of you. There could not be a happier moment than us hosting the AFC Women's Asian Cup on our home soil,” Patel was quoted as saying in a media statement issued by the AIFF.

“We all pray that you play well, and hope that you reach the quarterfinals. We will also award a prize money if you do so. It will be a proud moment for us all,” Patel declared.

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India have been drawn against Islamic Republic of Iran (January 20), Chinese Taipei (January 23) and China PR (January 26) in Group A of the competition.

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