Did India Suffer Another Close Defeat to Uzbekistan in Women’s International Friendly?

Bengaluru, June 3 (NationPress) The senior Indian women’s national team faced a second narrow loss against Uzbekistan, suffering a 0-1 defeat in the second of two FIFA Women’s International Friendlies held at the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence on Tuesday.

Despite a spirited and improved display, the Blue Tigresses were ultimately undone by a moment of brilliance from Nilufar Kudratova early in the second half.

This match, following a 0-1 defeat in the first friendly, brought hope for redemption. Although India showcased considerable improvement—especially in their intensity and intent—the scoreline regrettably remained unchanged.

India entered the match with renewed vigor and tactical discipline. In contrast to the first fixture, where the team appeared tentative and struggled during transitions, the hosts played more aggressively, pressing higher up the pitch to challenge the visitors.

The defense, spearheaded by the relentless efforts of Thokchom Martina and her defensive partners, diligently contained Uzbekistan’s quick-paced attack. Their positioning and communication were notably sharper, and when breaches occurred, goalkeeper Payal Basude stood firm, making several vital saves in the first half, including a remarkable effort after Nozimakhon Ergasheva struck the crossbar with a powerful shot in the 11th minute.

In midfield, India appeared more cohesive, with players effectively utilizing the width of the pitch to stretch the Uzbek defense. Sangita Basfore played a pivotal role in building attacks from deep, while fullback Ranjana Chanu contributed pace and creativity.

The best chance for India came in the 21st minute when Ranjana delivered a threatening cross from the right. Pyari Xaxa connected with a powerful header at the far post, but the Uzbekistan keeper executed a reflex save, and although the rebound fell to Sangita, she was unable to direct her shot on target.

This missed opportunity would haunt India later. Just four minutes into the second half, Uzbekistan capitalized. Kudratova received the ball at the edge of the box, danced past two defenders with skillful footwork, and unleashed a fierce left-footed shot that soared past Payal Basude into the top corner—a goal deserving of winning any match.

Though the setback seemed to initially unsettle the Blue Tigresses, they regrouped and pressed forward once more. Soumya Guguloth and Pyari Xaxa persistently probed the Uzbekistan defense, while substitutions injected fresh energy. However, despite several promising plays, the final pass or shot often lacked the precision needed to equalize.

Ultimately, India fell short, but the performance was far from disheartening. The Blue Tigresses exhibited resilience, tactical awareness, and a hunger for attack—qualities they had been criticized for lacking in the previous match.