SAFF U-15 Women's C’ship | India run 4-1 rout on Nepal in campaign opener
Indian eves kicked off their SAFF Championship campaign in the best possible way as they outplayed Nepal 4-1 in a one-sided match that mirrored the quality and dominance of Alex Ambrose's team. India would be playing Bhutan next in their second group stage match, which would be held on Friday.
Forward Lynda Kom Serto’s brace buoyed by winger Sumati Kumari, who scored one and assisted another, saw India out up a hopeful performance at the Chalimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Wednesday. India’s other goal was scored by Priyanka Sujeesh while Nepal got a consolation goal from Man Maya Damai.
The Indian colts looked lively from the very beginning of the match, which saw Sumati Kumari getting a very early chance after she was given a through ball ripping apart the Nepal defence but she could only slot it past the near post.
The early chance was followed by a stretched moment of intensity that saw both the sides coming closer to score, but neither could. Eventually, India settled in well to get composure before going ahead to score and take the lead as Sumati turned provider. She did exceptionally well to square the ball to Lynda, who scored a few minutes before the half-time break.
The second half wasn’t any different as Lynda found the back of the net yet again with Sumati being the provider again. And although Nepal’s Maya Damai pulled one back after 60 minutes, India saw substitute Sai Sankhae putting Priyanka through on goal as the latter added the fourth.
“First games are always difficult, but we passed the ball well and created a lot of chances. We still can play better. These girls are still in the learning phase, so yes, this is the time to learn from their mistakes. They will keep getting better with every game,” said head coach Alex Ambrose after the match, reported Sportstar.