India clinched a historic 2-1 victory over New Zealand in the bilateral esports Test Series at Armageddon Expo 2026 in Auckland, with Dr Abirami Iyer creating history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an international eFootball series abroad.
The triumph came on the sidelines of celebrations marking 100 Years of Unity Through Sport between India and New Zealand, where the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) and New Zealand Esports Federation Incorporated (NZ Esports) drafted a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation.
The Indian contingent featured Shagun Srivastava in women’s Clash Royale, Dr Abirami Iyer in women’s eFootball and Chinmay Sahoo in men’s eFootball console, and went on to seal the three-match Test Series 2-1. Chinmay gave India the lead with a 3-1 win in eFootball Open against Josh, followed by a dominant 3-0 victory for Abirami in eFootball Women over Janetteski to clinch the series, while Shagun went down 0-3 to Lokkie in the Clash Royale Women fixture.
Speaking on the milestone, Dr Iyer said, “A heartfelt thank you to ESFI for giving me this wonderful opportunity to represent India on an international stage! Participating in Armageddon Expo 2026 in Auckland as a woman esports athlete representing India in eFootball was an unforgettable milestone. Balancing my identity as a doctor with my passion for esports has taught me discipline, perseverance, and believing in myself. Competing against New Zealand in a best-of-five series brought immense pressure and excitement, but winning made every challenge worthwhile. It was about breaking stereotypes and proving that women can excel in competitive gaming. We don’t have to choose between our profession and our passion, we can pursue both. A special thank you to Lokesh sir for the constant support and encouragement throughout this journey. Truly grateful for this incredible experience and the memories I’ll cherish forever!”
Chinmay Sahoo, who also secured his series win for India, said,“It was an amazing and memorable experience to be part of Armageddon Expo 2026 as an eFootball India Player. It was rewarding and motivating to finally take the win from New Zealand’s Josh in a best of five series. It required me to be focused under pressure, to adjust my strategy to my opponent and play at my best on an international level. This is valuable experience for Los Angeles GEG 2026 ahead. I am thankful to ESFI and Lokesh sir for the support.”
