Did Iran's second-half goals defeat India in Shillong Women's Friendlies?
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Synopsis
The Indian women's football team faced a challenging start in the Tri-Nation Women's International Friendlies, succumbing to a 0-2 defeat against Iran. Their struggle to find their rhythm was evident, as Iran capitalized on their chances and displayed superior performance throughout the match.
Key Takeaways
- Two second-half goals from Sara Didar secured Iran's victory.
- India struggled to maintain composure throughout the match.
- Iran's physicality and ball control dictated the game's tempo.
- India's first real test of the Iranian goalkeeper came late in the match.
- Next match for India is scheduled against Nepal.
Shillong, Oct 21 (NationPress) It was a disappointing evening for the Indian senior women’s football team as they suffered a 0-2 loss against Iran in the first match of the Tri-Nation Women's International Friendlies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Tuesday.
Two second-half goals from substitute Sara Didar sealed the fate of the hosts, granting Iran a victory after a scoreless first half.
This match marked India's return to the field after their remarkable AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification campaign earlier this year and served as their initial test ahead of the Asian Cup in Australia next March. The Blue Tigresses appeared out of sorts and hesitant. In contrast, Iran exhibited composure, physical strength, and controlled the game's tempo from the beginning. India’s defense faltered every time Iran mounted an attack.
The match's tone was established early on. In the fourth minute, a straightforward cross was mishandled by Panthoi, allowing Fatemeh Shaban Ghohrood to seize the loose ball. A desperate clearance from Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi narrowly prevented Iran from taking an early lead, with the ball grazing the post before going out of play.
As confidence surged, Iran orchestrated fluid attacks while India struggled to create significant opportunities in the final third. Iran's persistence bore fruit in the 64th minute when Melika Motevaliitaher delivered a precise cross from the right, catching India's backline off-guard. An unmarked Zahra Ghanbari leaped to head the ball against the crossbar, and Sara Didar, also unmarked, acrobatically finished the rebound.
In the 74th minute, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi misjudged a routine clearance at the top of the box, allowing Didar to seize the ball. The forward wasted no time, unleashing a low strike past Panthoi to extend the lead to 2-0 and shatter India's hopes once more. As time wound down, India's lack of offensive sharpness became painfully evident, with their first real test of Iranian goalkeeper Raha Yazdani coming only in the 89th minute when Lynda Kom Serto's low free-kick was saved.
The visitors nearly added a third goal in stoppage time, with Ghohrood sprinting down the left flank and hitting the post. By that point, it was clear the match had slipped away from India, who will face Nepal next on October 27.
Iran is set to meet Nepal on October 24.
Point of View
I must emphasize the importance of this match for the Indian women’s football team. It serves as a crucial reminder that the road to success requires resilience and consistent performance. With their eyes set on the Asian Cup, the team needs to regroup and learn from these encounters.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was India 0, Iran 2.
When is India's next match?
India's next match is against Nepal on October 27.
Who scored the goals for Iran?
Sara Didar scored both goals for Iran in the second half.
Where was the match held?
The match was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.
What does this match signify for India?
This match is significant as it marks India's return to action following their AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification campaign.
