Selayang, Malaysia, October 5 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian U-17 women’s national football team kicked off its AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign with an extraordinary performance, defeating Iraq 14-0 on October 5, 2026. The match took place at the MP Selayang Stadium in Selayang, Malaysia.
Anushka Kumari led the charge, scoring multiple goals, including two in the second half. Her outstanding play earned her the ‘Player of the Match’ title. Other contributors included Silky Devi Sorokhaibam, Thandamani Baske, and Neera Chanu Longjam, who all found the back of the net in the first half.
Captain Abhista Basnet also made a significant impact, scoring two goals with headers. The team’s dominant display was a stark contrast to their previous record win of 12-0 against the UAE in 2014 and Sri Lanka in 2018.
The “Young Tigresses” showcased relentless running, close marking, and effective one-touch play, leaving the Iraqi side bewildered. The game was temporarily halted in the 64th minute due to thunderstorms, but India quickly regained momentum once play resumed.
Joakim Alexandersson’s midfield played a crucial role, maintaining a compact formation that denied Iraq possession. Players like Redima Devi Chingkhayum, Thandamani Baske, Silky Devi Sorokhaibam, and Alva Devi Senjam effectively utilized the width of the field, creating opportunities for their forwards.
Anushka and Neera capitalized on chances with precision, while the Indian defense remained largely untested. After scoring seven goals by halftime, India continued to dominate in the second half. Anushka netted her fourth goal shortly after the break, followed by a rebound goal from substitute Preetika Barman.
Despite some impressive saves from the Iraqi goalkeeper, India’s offensive pressure proved overwhelming. After the weather delay, Abhista scored again with a header from a corner kick, and Anushka added her fifth goal with a stunning finish.
The match concluded with a record-setting score as Alva scored the final goal, sealing a historic 14-0 victory for India. This remarkable win sets a new benchmark for the team as they advance in the tournament.
Leave a Comment