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

The Indian U17 women's football team experienced a tough start in their friendly match against Russia, losing 0-4. Key moments included penalties scored by the Russian team and missed opportunities for India. The team, coached by Pamela Conti, is gearing up for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China 2026. Upcoming matches against Russia are set for April 14 and 17, promising more competitive action. Stay tuned for updates on their performance and preparations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 12, 2026, 00:03 IST

Match Overview

In their opening friendly match at the Matsesta Football Centre in Sochi, Russia, the Indian U17 women's football team suffered a 0-4 defeat against the hosts on Saturday.

Scoring Summary

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) reported that Valeria Menyailova scored the first goal for Russia in the 44th minute. Following this, Dana Dobrovitskaya and Alisa Klimova successfully converted penalties in the 57th and 72nd minutes, respectively. Angelina Gulyayeva capped off the scoring in the 88th minute. 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.

First Half Highlights

The match began with India showing enthusiasm and eagerness on the ball, while Russia played cautiously. Redima Devi Chingkhamayum nearly scored for India midway through the first half with a long-range shot, but it was expertly saved by goalkeeper Daria Volodicheva.

Russia took the lead just before halftime when Polina Frolova intercepted a pass from Elizabed Lakra, advancing the ball to Valeria Menyailova, who finished low past goalkeeper Munni.

Second Half Action

India continued to fight in the second half but soon conceded a penalty. Divyani Linda, Elizabed, and Abhista Basnett were involved in a challenge against Dana Dobrovitskaya in the box, leading to a penalty kick that Dana converted in the 57th minute.

Shortly after, Alisa Klimova scored another penalty after being fouled by Abhista, extending Russia's lead to 3-0.

Anwita Raghuraman nearly scored for India when she tackled the Russian goalkeeper, but her header was cleared off the line by Emelianova. Redima then struck the crossbar from distance, but the rebound was cleared by the Russian defense.

Russia sealed the match with a fourth goal two minutes before the end, as Angelina Gulyayeva scored from a lob by Kuznetsova.

Upcoming Matches

India and Russia are scheduled to play two additional friendlies on April 14 and 17, which will be available for live streaming on the Indian Football YouTube channel.

India U17 Women's Lineup

The lineup for the India U17 women's team included: Munni (GK), Elizabed Lakra, Divyani Linda, Anushka Kumari (substituted for Julan Nongmaithem at 46'), Ritu Badaik, Pritika Barman (substituted for Valaina Fernandes at 85'), Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi Senjam (substituted for Thandamoni Baskey at 85'), Joya (substituted for Anwita Raghuraman at 70'), and Bonifilia Shullai (C) (substituted for Pearl Fernandes at 70').