India’s revamped women’s football team endured a 4-0 defeat against Russia in an international friendly at the rain-soaked Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Thursday.
Russia broke the deadlock in the 41st minute through Iana Sheina before Kira Petukhova struck twice in quick succession in the 60th and 65th minutes. Iana Svistunova added the fourth goal in the 81st minute to complete a convincing victory for the visitors.
Despite the disappointing result, the encounter provided valuable international exposure for India’s emerging talents. Head coach Crispin Chettri used the fixture to assess his young squad, handing senior international debuts to six players — Babysana Devi Thingbaijam, Malati Munda, Cindy Colney, Shubhangi Singh, Dhurga Perumal and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam.
Ranked 69th in the world, India faced a formidable challenge against 27th-ranked Russia. The match also marked a historic occasion, as Kolkata hosted its first-ever women’s international football match.
For much of the first half, the Blue Tigresses displayed defensive discipline, maintaining a compact shape and attempting to limit Russia’s attacking threat. Although the visitors enjoyed greater possession and territorial dominance, India remained organised at the back and looked for opportunities to create openings of their own. Goalkeeper Monalisha also played her part in keeping the hosts competitive during the early stages.
However, Russia’s attacking pressure eventually told, with the visitors finding the net four times to secure the win.
While the scoreline highlighted the gap between the two sides, the friendly offered India’s new-look squad an important opportunity to gain international experience and prepare for future challenges.
Both the teams will meet again on October 11.
India Women’s Team Starting XI:
Monalisha Devi Moirangthem, Purnima Kumari, Jasoda Munda, Sangita Basfore, Sanfida Nongrum, Lynda Kom Serto, Babysana Devi Thingbaijam, Ranjana Chanu Sorokhaibam, Juli Kishan, Malati Munda, Malavika P
Picture Courtesy: AIFF Media
