Suzhou (China), May 2: India began their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup campaign with a 0-2 loss against Australia in Group B here on Saturday, marking their return to the competition after a 21-year gap.
Theodora Mouithys (25’) and Abhista Basnett (own goal 59’) scored for Australia at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre.
Pamela Conti’s Young Tigresses showed resilience and attacking intent throughout the contest, particularly in the second half, against a physically strong Australian side.
Australia enjoyed the better share of possession in the opening half and made their breakthrough in the 25th minute through Theodora Mouithys. An own goal by Abhista Basnett in the second half doubled Australia’s lead, but India responded with an energetic display, creating opportunities and maintaining their structure across the pitch. Japan defeated Lebanon 13-0 in the other match of the group, which means India currently sit in third place. India will face Japan in their next match on May 5. Australia asserted early control in India’s opening match, enjoying sustained spells of possession and probing consistently in the final third. (PTI)
