Yangon (Myanmar), March 12 (NationPress) Pritika Barman scored two goals as the Indian U17 women’s football team showcased an impressive performance to secure a 2-0 victory against Myanmar in their first international friendly match held at the Thuwunna Stadium on Thursday.

This friendly match forms part of India's preparations for the upcoming AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup, which is set to take place in Suzhou, China, from May 1 to May 17, 2026. Myanmar, also a participant in the continental tournament, is utilizing these matches for their own preparation.

The Indian side displayed a poised and balanced approach, scoring once in each half while keeping a clean sheet against a determined Myanmar team. Goalkeeper Munni was pivotal when necessary, and the defensive unit, led by Abhista Basnett and Elizabed Lakra, remained well-organized throughout the match.

The Young Tigresses made a strong start, asserting their presence with controlled ball possession and calculated attacking plays. Myanmar, however, was proactive in the opening half, trying to disrupt India's flow by applying high pressure. Despite their efforts, India gradually took control and began to carve out significant chances.

The first notable opportunity came in the 31st minute when India’s captain Julan Nongmaithem played a pass down the left flank for Alisha Lyngdoh. The left-back sent in a dangerous cross into the box, but Pearl Fernandes was unable to direct her header accurately.

India continued to seek a breakthrough and finally achieved it in the 38th minute with a well-coordinated play. After regaining possession at the center circle, Redima Devi Chingkhamayum found Pritika Barman with a precise through ball. The winger exhibited composure, evaded her defender, rounded Myanmar's goalkeeper Saung Pwint Phyu, and calmly placed the ball into the empty net, giving India a 1-0 advantage before halftime.

Although Myanmar had shown some resilience in the first period, the second half saw India take complete command of the game. Under Pamela Conti's guidance, the team increased their pace and began to dominate possession, pushing Myanmar deeper into their own territory.

India doubled their lead just four minutes into the second half. Alva Devi Senjam made an explosive run down the left flank before delivering a perfectly timed cross into the penalty area. The delivery evaded the Myanmar defense, allowing Pritika Barman to arrive at the right moment and volley the ball into the net with finesse.

This goal significantly shifted the momentum in favor of India as Myanmar struggled to match the visitors’ pace and agility. India continued to control the game and came close to scoring a third in the 60th minute when Abhista unleashed a powerful free-kick from over 30 yards, which struck the crossbar.

Despite the missed chance, India maintained their composure and controlled the match's pace for the remainder of the game. Their disciplined defending and efficient ball movement kept Myanmar at bay, allowing the visitors to comfortably secure the victory.