Indian Women's Football Team Faces Defeat Against Russia in Kolkata Friendly
Indian Women’s Team Struggles in First Friendly Against Russia
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], October 8: The revamped Indian women's football team put up a commendable fight during the initial half but ultimately succumbed to a 0-4 loss against Russia in their first international friendly match at the rain-drenched Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Thursday.
The visitors took the lead just before halftime, thanks to a stunning goal from Iana Sheina in the 40th minute. Substitute Kira Petukhova then scored twice in quick succession at the 60th and 65th minutes, while Iana Svistunova sealed the match with a goal in the 81st minute, as reported by the AIFF.
Head coach Crispin Chettri utilized this match to evaluate his emerging talents, 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.
Ranked 69th, the Blue Tigresses faced a tough opponent in 27th-ranked Russia, marking India's inaugural women's international match in Kolkata. Despite the odds, the home team displayed disciplined defense and created several chances that could have altered the match's outcome.
Russia dominated possession and territorial control, pushing their players forward to challenge India's defensive setup. The Blue Tigresses responded with a solid defensive block, effectively tracking runners and closing passing lanes, while Monalisha remained resolute in goal.
India's best chance came around the 30-minute mark when Malavika P had a close-range opportunity. However, Russian goalkeeper Natalia Silina reacted swiftly to avert the danger before Malavika could capitalize.
Lynda Kom Serto also had a chance later in the half, but India failed to convert their promising moments into goals. Instead, it was Sheina's individual brilliance that broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, as she found the bottom corner with a precise shot past Monalisha.
This setback was tough for a defense that had worked diligently to contain the visitors. India went into halftime trailing 0-1, still within striking distance. The heavy rain made the second half even more challenging. Russia maintained pressure on India, keeping them pinned back on the increasingly slippery pitch.
Natalia Mashina and Petukhova both narrowly missed chances, while Monalisha made crucial saves to prevent Russia from extending their lead. India struggled to break free from the pressure and establish an attacking rhythm.
Russia doubled their advantage in the 60th minute when captain Nadezhda Smirnova attempted a long-range shot that bounced awkwardly off the wet surface. Monalisha could only parry the ball, allowing Petukhova to score from close range.
Just five minutes later, Petukhova struck again, capitalizing on India's failure to clear the ball effectively inside the box. Chettri made three substitutions in the 66th minute, introducing Shubhangi Singh, Priyadharshini Selladurai, and Renu for Malati, Babysana, and Jasoda Munda, respectively.
Despite the changes, Russia continued to press and added their fourth goal in the 81st minute. Svistunova skillfully controlled a bouncing ball from the left before driving it home.
This match highlighted the difficulties India faces in maintaining defensive solidity against stronger teams. However, the first-half organization, attacking opportunities, and Monalisha's saves provided some positives, while the introduction of six debutants showcased Chettri's vision for expanding the squad.
The two teams are set to clash again on October 11.