India’s under-17 women’s team loses 1-3 against Sweden ahead of the World Cup
India’s women’s under-17 team lost 1-3 to Sweden on Monday in Spain during their preparatory tour for the FIFA Women’s Under-17 World Cup.
However, India looked promising early on as they competed on equal terms in an intense midfield battle that saw winger Anita Kumari get an early shot at the rival goal, which was saved.
Sweden got the scoreboard ticking in the first half, notching a goal in the 44th minute with a header from Ida Gramfors. Its second goal was scored minutes after the second half kick-off when Sara Firgren turned in a rebound.
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India head coach Thomas Dennerby made three changes, bringing on Sudha, Shubhangi and Shilky in place of Lynda Kom, Babina Devi and Varshika as India pressed hard to find the target.
Sweden took a 3-0 lead with Selma Aström scoring from a cross in the 54th minute.
For India, it was Sudha Tirkey who scored in the 62nd minute to give hopes of a comeback into the game.
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Nitu Linda almost created a chance out of nowhere, when she cut down on a rival defender to dispossess the ball in Sweden’s penalty area. However, the Sweden goalkeeper was close at hand and managed to collect the ball.
India continued to drive forward but could not score again, leaving Sweden to win the match by a 3-1 margin.
“I am happy to have the opportunity to play these matches. It will mostly be a 10-day camp in Spain and the focus is on the games now. Most of these girls are very young, they don’t have much experience playing important games. It is necessary to play against good opponents and it is crucial for us to have these games before the World Cup. Hopefully it will boost the confidence of the girls,” Dennerby said while addressing the All India Football Federation.