Can India U20 Women's Coach Alexandersson Secure a Win in Uzbekistan?
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Synopsis
India's U20 women's team, after a resilient 1-1 draw against Uzbekistan, is eager to clinch victory in their final friendly match. Coach Joakim Alexandersson emphasizes the need for improvement in attacking fluidity and aggressiveness as they prepare for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers. Will they rise to the challenge?
Key Takeaways
- India's U20 women's team aims to improve after a draw.
- Coach Joakim Alexandersson emphasizes the need for aggression.
- The match will be held at Do'stlik Stadium.
- The team focuses on preparation for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers.
- Expectations are high for improved performance in the second match.
New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) Following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Uzbekistan in their inaugural U20 women's friendly match on Monday, India is set to challenge the host team once more in the concluding game on Wednesday at the Do'stlik Stadium.
Similar to the previous match, this encounter will also take place without spectators, as agreed upon by both teams, who are in preparation mode for the upcoming AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Sulanjana Raul salvaged a draw for the Young Tigresses with her equalizing goal in the 79th minute after Uzbekistan had taken an early lead.
India's head coach Joakim Alexandersson reflected on the game, stating that his team deserved a win but acknowledged that a sluggish start limited their opportunities.
"It was a good match for us. We struggled initially with our high press during the first 15-20 minutes, lacking aggression. However, we improved over time, creating chances through effective build-ups and movements," he noted.
"In the second half, we dominated, despite conceding a few chances due to individual errors. We created significantly more opportunities than they did and certainly deserved a victory. However, one must convert chances into goals," the Swedish coach added.
The match was initially scheduled for Sunday but was delayed by over 24 hours due to operational issues at the venue.
Despite the last-minute schedule change, the Indian women's team maintained their focus and did not allow it to impact their performance.
"Initially, there was a bit of disappointment when we reached the venue on Sunday and discovered we couldn’t play. But our tight-knit group has been together for some time, so the girls managed it well. We are staying at a great hotel with excellent food and facilities. I commend their attitude," Alexandersson expressed.
This rescheduling meant a shorter recovery period before the second match, but Alexandersson is not overly concerned. He is looking for greater attacking fluidity, improved duels, and consistent performance throughout the game as they aim for a win to conclude the tour.
"We must be prepared from the outset. I expect our backline to be more aggressive and all players to engage more in offensive actions. Toughness in duels, both offensive and defensive, is essential. Finally, we must capitalize on our scoring opportunities," Alexandersson stated.
Based on the competitiveness observed in the first match, Alexandersson believes these friendlies serve as valuable preparation for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers, where India will face teams like Myanmar, Indonesia, and Turkmenistan in Yangon.
"Uzbekistan appears stronger than in previous matches I’ve analyzed. They are a well-organized, physically powerful team with several individually skilled players. This serves as a good test," he concluded.
Point of View
I believe the resilience shown by the Indian women's U20 team is commendable. Their ability to adapt and remain focused despite challenges reflects their dedication and potential. As they prepare for the upcoming qualifiers, every match serves as a stepping stone towards greater achievements, showcasing the growth of women's football in India.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the first match against Uzbekistan?
The first match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Sulanjana Raul scoring the equalizer for India.
Where will the second match be held?
The second match will take place at the Do'stlik Stadium in Uzbekistan.
What preparations are the Indian team making for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers?
The team is utilizing the friendly matches against Uzbekistan to enhance their performance and build team cohesion ahead of the qualifiers.
What does Coach Alexandersson expect from the upcoming match?
He expects improved attacking fluidity, greater aggressiveness in defense, and better finishing of scoring opportunities.
Who are India's upcoming opponents in the qualifiers?
India will face Myanmar, Indonesia, and Turkmenistan in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers.
