Thimphu, Aug 20 (PTI) India began their SAFF U17 Women's Championship campaign in spectacular fashion, delivering a dominant 7-0 victory over Nepal in Thimphu on Wednesday.
Three players showcased exceptional performances, each scoring twice: Nira Chanu Longjam (25th, 56th), Abhista Basnett (16th, 41st), and Anushka Kumari (37th, 62nd). Team captain Julan Nongmaithem added to the tally, ensuring a decisive victory.
The Indian squad surged to a commanding 5-0 advantage by halftime, leaving Nepal with little chance for a comeback in this decidedly one-sided encounter. With a double round-robin format this year, India’s assertive start is crucial, and they certainly rose to the occasion with aplomb.
From the onset, the Indian team asserted control, their cohesion reflecting months of intensive training since the start of the year. The midfield effectively managed the game's rhythm, delivering incisive passes and dissecting Nepal's defense with precision, while the forwards continuously exploited spaces to their advantage.
India's defensive unit, although tested in the initial stages, remained solid and organized. Goalkeeper Munni delivered a commendable performance, ensuring a clean sheet and confidently leading the backline.
Set-pieces were a critical component of India’s strategy. The scoring commenced in the 16th minute, after a defensive error from Nepal resulted in a corner. Shveta Rani's delivery from the left saw Nepal's goalkeeper Jharna Dumrakoti falter, allowing Basnett to seize the opportunity and score from close range.
India extended their lead in the 25th minute. Kumari’s insightful pass split the defense, allowing Nira Chanu to drive a powerful low shot beyond Dumrakoti’s reach.
Kumari then turned scorer in the 37th minute, showcasing calmness under pressure as she placed the ball past the opposition’s keeper, making it 3-0.
Just four minutes later, Basnett claimed her second goal. A pass intended for Chanu deflected off Anshu BK, but Basnett was quick to capitalize, delivering a precise strike to further India’s advantage to 4-0.
In stoppage time of the first half, India capitalized on a corner, where a goalmouth scramble ensued leading to Nongmaithem reacting swiftly to score, solidifying a 5-0 lead at halftime.
Despite the substantial lead, India maintained their offensive approach in the second half. Nira Chanu scored her brace in the 56th minute, remaining unmarked and launching a powerful shot to increase the lead to 6-0.
The final goal in the 62nd minute exemplified teamwork. Basnett set up Chanu at the box's edge; as the goalkeeper advanced, Chanu deftly passed to Kumari, who finished into an open net, concluding a comprehensive 7-0 victory.
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