Alexandersson Eager to Introduce More Players After 14-0 Victory Against Maldives in Initial Friendly

Bengaluru, Dec 31 (NationPress) Joakim Alexandersson kicked off his coaching tenure as head coach of the women’s national team with a resounding 14-0 victory over Maldives in the first of two FIFA women's friendlies held in Bengaluru. What made this match particularly noteworthy was that eight players had their first senior India appearance, and the Swedish coach has confirmed that there will be even more opportunities in the upcoming game on January 2.

The vast difference in skill level was evident from the start. While Alexandersson expressed satisfaction with how most strategies unfolded, he is eager to see what his bench players can contribute on Thursday.

"I believe we made the most of this opportunity. We were significantly stronger than them. We took advantage of our strengths and made progress in our ball movement, utilizing space effectively, stretching wide, and maintaining a central focus. Overall, I consider it a commendable performance from our side," he stated.

"We’re going to seize the chance to field more inexperienced players from the outset in the next game. We’ll make some rotations. Let's see what they can bring to the table in the upcoming match."

Among the debutants, Lynda Kom Serto stood out remarkably by netting four goals. Those familiar with her journey from a young age would perceive this as a typical display, despite it being her senior debut. Lynda first garnered attention when she scored two goals during the SAFF U15 Championship at just 12 years old in 2017. She was the MVP and top-scorer in the SAFF U18 Championship in 2022 and represented India as the number nine at the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup later that same year.

Lynda developed a solid connection with her fellow senior striker and Odisha FC teammate Pyari Xaxa, with the pair contributing to half of the team’s total goals.

"Lynda performed exceptionally well; she was tactically sound as we had discussed prior to the match," Alexandersson remarked.

The 19-year-old expressed, "I’m thrilled to have scored four goals in my first match with the senior team. I dedicate these goals to my family, coaches, and teammates. I aim to score more in future matches. These friendly matches are invaluable as they enhance our development as a cohesive unit."

Neha, honored as the AIFF Promising Women's Player of the Year in July, also scored twice on her India debut, as did substitute Kajol Dsouza. Rimpa Haldar, who dazzled with her dribbling, achieved her first goal for the national team following some impressive build-up play.

Expecting Maldives to adapt and strive for a more compact approach in the second friendly, Alexandersson hopes to see faster and more fluid gameplay with the ball. The fact that they maintained a clean sheet after the 66th minute indicates that they have the potential to be a competent defensive team.

"I want us to accelerate our pace even further. I believe our opponents will improve in the next match, so we need to be quicker in our decision-making with the ball," Alexandersson concluded.