India’s U20 women’s national football team ended in a disappointing loss at the second Group C match of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 at the Pathum Thani Stadium in Thailand.
On Sunday, April 5, the Young Tigresses suffered a disappointing 0-5 defeat against Australia. With the defeat, India are now placed at the bottom of Group C with zero points from two matches. They have their match for the final group fixture against Chinese Taipei, giving them their last chance to qualify.
Australia dominated the game with key players like Skye Halmarick scoring a hat-trick. She got her first in the 38th minute from the penalty spot, followed by immediate strikes in the 39th and 48th minutes. The fourth goal came from Danella Butrus in the 54th minute, while Daisy Brown completed the fifth and final one.
India has started the match on a good note while creating early chances. In the opening minutes, Sulanjana Raul tried to attempt the left flank. She delivered a low cross to Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, but it did not end in the goal. Meanwhile, Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam also tried to make attempts through set-pieces but for India, the breakthrough never came.
India did not stop in their attempts and continued to push through their goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem. She made several crucial saves. Meanwhile, Remi Thokchom attempted a late clearance. Later in the 85th minute, India got a good chance but Sibani’s goal went wide.
On the other hand, Australia got their first breakthrough in the 38th minute through a penalty from Halmarick who converted from the spot. She then doubled the lead with a header. The team maintained their momentum and extended their lead as Halmarick struck her third, while Butrus added the fourth for the team. Brown added the fifth to seal the victory for Australia.
India U20 Women’s Squad:
Monalisha Devi Moirangthem (GK), Thoibisana Chanu Toijam, Pooja, Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam, Lhingdeikim, Bhumika Devi Khumukcham, Remi Thokchom, Shubhangi Singh (C) (Shruti Kumari HT), Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam (Arina Devi Nameirakpam 68’), Sulanjana Raul, Cindy Colney
