Indian Women's Football Team Faces Defeat Against Russia in Kolkata Friendly

In a challenging friendly match, the Indian women's football team faced a 0-4 defeat against Russia in Kolkata. Despite a resilient first half, the team struggled to maintain their defensive efforts, leading to a series of goals from the visitors. Head coach Crispin Chettri utilized this opportunity to test new talent, granting debuts to several players. The match highlighted both the challenges and potential of the team as they prepare for their next encounter on October 11.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 8, 2026, 21:56 IST

Indian Women's Team Struggles in First Friendly Match

The Indian women's football team, sporting a revamped lineup, faced a challenging match against Russia, ultimately losing 0-4 in their first international friendly held at the rain-soaked Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Thursday. The visitors took the lead in the 40th minute thanks to Iana Sheina's impressive goal, followed by two strikes from substitute Kira Petukhova in the 60th and 65th minutes. Iana Svistunova sealed the match with a goal in the 81st minute, as Russia's persistent pressure overwhelmed the Blue Tigresses after halftime.

Debutants Shine Despite Setback

Head coach Crispin Chettri utilized this match to evaluate emerging talent, granting international debuts to Babysana Devi Thingbaijam, Malati Munda, Cindy Colney, Shubhangi Singh, Dhurga Perumal, and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam. Goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem also made her first start, marking her third cap overall.

First Half: A Resilient Defense

Ranked 69th, the Blue Tigresses faced a formidable opponent in 27th-ranked Russia, marking India's inaugural women's international match in Kolkata. For much of the first half, the home team displayed disciplined defense and created several chances that could have altered the match's outcome.

Although Russia maintained greater possession and territorial control, the Blue Tigresses responded with a compact defensive strategy, effectively tracking runners and closing passing lanes, with Monalisha providing solid support in goal.

India's best chance came around the 30-minute mark when Malavika P had a close-range opportunity, but Russian goalkeeper Natalia Silina swiftly intervened. Lynda Kom Serto also had a chance later in the half, but the team failed to convert their promising moments into goals.

The breakthrough came from Sheina's individual brilliance in the 40th minute, as she found the bottom corner with a precise shot past Monalisha, marking a tough moment for a defense that had worked diligently.

Second Half: Russia's Dominance

Entering the second half trailing 0-1, India faced a more challenging scenario due to heavy rain. Russia quickly applied pressure, keeping the hosts on the back foot on the slippery pitch.

Despite Natalia Mashina and Petukhova missing chances, Monalisha made crucial saves to prevent Russia from extending their lead. However, India struggled to break free and establish an attacking rhythm.

Russia doubled their lead in the 60th minute when captain Nadezhda Smirnova's long-range effort was parried by Monalisha, allowing Petukhova to score from close range.

Just five minutes later, Petukhova found the net again, capitalizing on India's defensive lapses. Chettri made three substitutions in the 66th minute, introducing Shubhangi Singh, Priyadharshini Selladurai, and Renu for Malati, Babysana, and Jasoda Munda.

Despite the changes, Russia continued to dominate, adding a fourth goal in the 81st minute when Svistunova skillfully controlled a delivery from the left before scoring.

Looking Ahead: Building for the Future

While the result highlighted the difficulties of maintaining defensive solidity against stronger teams, India's first-half organization, attacking opportunities, and Monalisha's saves provided some positives. The inclusion of six debutants reflects Chettri's strategy to expand the squad's depth.

The two teams are set to meet again on October 11.