Indian Women's Futsal Team Suffers 0-5 Loss to Hong Kong in International Debut
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Synopsis
The Indian women's futsal team experienced a tough debut on the international stage, suffering a 0-5 loss to Hong Kong in their first match for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup 2025. Despite the defeat, the players showcased determination and skill, which bodes well for the future of futsal in India.
Key Takeaways
- Indian women's futsal team lost 0-5 in their first international match.
- Cheung Wai Ki scored a hat-trick for Hong Kong.
- India showed resilience and teamwork despite the defeat.
- Goalkeeper Tanvi Vijaykumar made several critical saves.
- India will face Indonesia next in the tournament.
Yogyakarta (Indonesia), Jan 15 (NationPress) The Indian women's futsal team faced a challenging start in their international journey, enduring a 0-5 defeat against Hong Kong during a Group B qualifier for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup 2025 held at Yogyakarta’s Among Rogo Sports Hall on Wednesday.
Despite the outcome, the squad exhibited a strong spirit and determination, qualities that are essential for the advancement of futsal in India.
In their inaugural match, the novice Indian team showcased a commendable style of cohesive futsal in the first half, managing to stay competitive as they trailed by only one goal. However, they struggled in the second half against a more seasoned opponent ranked 31st by FIFA.
Key to Hong Kong’s triumph was the skilled Cheung Wai Ki, who netted a remarkable hat-trick, while Wai Yuen Ting and Kung Yuet Charis contributed the other two goals.
The match marked a significant milestone for the Indian players, who, despite their debut on such a prominent platform, maintained focus and adhered closely to their strategic directives. Khushbu Saroj was relentless in midfield, and Drishti Pant drew attention with her intelligent positioning shortly after her entry into the game.
India’s goalkeeper Tanvi Vijaykumar was notably active, facing numerous attacks from the opposition while executing several remarkable saves.
The Indian coach Joshuah Vaz called for a time-out at the 10-minute mark to provide swift guidance. However, India’s initial defense faltered in the 13th minute when Cheung Wai Ki outsmarted Tanvi for the first goal.
The second half highlighted the experience of the Hong Kong players, who capitalized on the Indian team’s inexperience. Cheung Wai Ki demonstrated exceptional skill and aggressive play, which left the Indian side largely confined in their half, limiting their opportunities to challenge the opposing goalkeeper. The Indian defense was breached multiple times, leading to further goals as the match progressed.
India's next challenge will be against the hosts, Indonesia, on Friday, following Indonesia's impressive 11-3 victory over the Kyrgyz Republic in their opening match on Wednesday.
