Did India U20 Women Dominate Uzbekistan in Their Second Friendly?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India U20 women's national team displayed remarkable skill and teamwork.
- Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam was a standout performer with two goals.
- The team showed resilience by recovering after an early equalizer from Uzbekistan.
- Strong second-half performance led to a decisive victory.
- Coaching strategies implemented by Joakim Alexandersson proved effective.
New Delhi, July 16 (NationPress) The India U20 women’s national team achieved a remarkable victory over Uzbekistan, winning 4-1 in their second friendly match at the Do’stlik Stadium in Tashkent on Wednesday. The first half ended in a 1-1 draw.
After a close encounter in the first friendly, where the teams ended with a 1-1 tie, the Young Tigresses showcased their strength with Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam netting two goals (28’, 85’), while Sulanjana Raul (65’) and Neha (71’) contributed one goal each. The only goal for Uzbekistan was scored by Shakhnoza Dekanbaeva (37’).
Uzbekistan made four changes in their lineup, whereas India U20 coach Joakim Alexandersson opted for two substitutions. Juhi Singh came in for Nishima Kumari in defense, and Arina Devi Nameirakpam replaced Lhingdeikim in midfield.
Unlike the first match, the visitors took an early lead as Sibani finished a cross from Neha in the 28th minute. However, the celebrations were short-lived as Dekanbaeva equalized just nine minutes later.
In the second half, India came out strong, reclaiming their lead within 20 minutes. Sulanjana skillfully controlled a long ball from Cindy Colney before scoring.
The lead was doubled in the 71st minute when Sulanjana transitioned from scorer to provider, assisting Neha, who skillfully chipped the ball over Uzbekistan goalkeeper Ezoza Sevinova.
Although Cindy was sent off shortly after for a tackle, the Young Tigresses managed to score one last goal, with substitute Bhumika Devi Khumukcham evading two defenders and setting up Sibani for a shot into the bottom corner.
India U20 Women: Monalisha Devi Moirangthem (GK), Remi Thokchom, Juhi Singh (Nishima Kumari 46’), Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Arina Devi Nameirakpam (Lhingdekim 69’), Neha (Bhumika Khumukcham 83’), Pooja (Khushbu Saroj 69’), Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, Shubhangi Singh (C), Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam (Alina Chingkham 78’), Sulanjana Raul (Fragrancy 83’).