India U17 Women's Football Team Faces Defeat Against Russia in Friendly Match

Match Overview

The Indian U17 women's football team experienced a 0-3 loss to Russia during their second friendly match held at the Matsesta Football Centre in Sochi, Russia, on Tuesday. Valeria Menyailova scored twice shortly after halftime (49', 52'), following an initial goal by Sofia Svyatnaya in the 18th minute. The Russian team capitalized on critical mistakes made by the Indian side to secure their victory. Notably, while the entire Russian squad was born in 2009, India's lineup featured four players born in 2009, four in 2011, and three in 2010, according to the AIFF website. The Young Tigresses, under the guidance of Italian coach Pamela Conti, are utilizing these matches as preparation for the upcoming AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China 2026. In their first encounter against Russia three days prior, India had lost 0-4.

First Half Highlights

Russia started aggressively, nearly scoring within the first two minutes. Menyailova was set up inside the box and displayed impressive footwork to evade Divyani Linda, but her close-range shot was thwarted by a brilliant save from goalkeeper Munni. The winger continued to be a threat, coming close again in the 10th minute, but Munni's quick reflexes kept the match scoreless.

India took some time to find their rhythm, with their first shot on target occurring in the 13th minute when Valaina Fernandes attempted a long-range effort, which was easily caught by goalkeeper Emelianova Anastasiya. Just a minute later, Valaina assisted Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam, who also tested the Russian keeper. This match marked Olivia's debut for the youth international team.

Despite India's increasing involvement, Russia broke the deadlock in the 18th minute due to a misjudgment by Munni on a free-kick from Sofia Svyatnaya, allowing the ball to slip past her and into the net.

Second Half Challenges

The Young Tigresses responded to the setback by pushing forward and creating chances. Their best opportunity came in the 32nd minute when Valaina maneuvered past her defender and aimed for the far corner, but Emelianova made a crucial save to maintain Russia's lead at halftime.

India's chances of a comeback were hindered early in the second half due to a defensive error. In the 49th minute, a series of poor backpasses led to Menyailova intercepting the ball, rounding Munni, and scoring to double Russia's lead.

Russia extended their advantage in the 52nd minute with a well-executed play, as Mira Kuznetsova delivered a precise pass to Menyailova, who scored with a powerful right-footed shot.

Despite the scoreline, India continued to press forward and nearly scored in the 70th minute when substitute Pearl Fernandes took a strong shot, but Emelianova was again up to the challenge, making a solid save.

Looking Ahead

Although the final score reflected Russia's efficiency, India showed promising moments, particularly from Valaina and Olivia. The two teams are set to meet again for the final friendly match on April 17, as India aims to regroup and refine their strategies for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China 2026.

India U17 Women's Squad

India U17 Women: Munni (GK), Elizabed Lakra, Divyani Linda, Thandamoni Baskey (Bonifilia Shullai 82'), Julan Nongmaithem (Joya 88'), Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam (Anushka Kumari 82'), Ritu Badaik (Alisha Lyngdoh 62'), Valaina Fernandes (Pearl Fernandes 62'), Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi Senjam (Pritika Barman 62').