Daijiworld Media Network- Tashkent

Tashkent, Jul 15: The India U20 women’s football team began their two-match friendly series on a steady note, holding hosts Uzbekistan to a 1-1 draw in an engaging encounter at the Do’stlik Stadium, Tashkent, on Monday.

Originally scheduled for Sunday, the match was postponed by 24 hours due to operational issues at the venue. But once the game kicked off, both sides showed sharp intent in this crucial preparatory clash ahead of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers later this year.

Uzbekistan drew first blood in the 38th minute when Mexribon Egamberdiyeva, already capped at senior level, capitalised on a loose ball inside the Indian box and coolly slotted it past the keeper to give the home side a 1-0 lead going into halftime.

The Indian colts, however, did not back down. Despite missing clear chances, they maintained pressure throughout the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 79th minute when Sulanjana Raul found the equaliser amidst chaos in the Uzbekistan penalty area. A curling cross from Remi Thokchom was mishandled by the Uzbek defenders, allowing Sulanjana to pounce on the opportunity and level the scores.

India’s head coach will take heart from the fighting spirit shown by the young team, especially after falling behind in an away fixture. The draw offers a promising start to their tour and serves as a good platform ahead of the second friendly match, scheduled for Wednesday, July 16.

India U20 Starting XI:

Monalisha Devi Moirangthem (GK), Remi Thokchom, Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Nishima Kumari (Juhi Singh 90'), Neha (Babita Kumari 90'), Pooja (Deepika Pal 73'), Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam (Monisha Singha 73'), Lhingdeikim, Shubhangi Singh (Captain), Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam (Bhumika Devi Khumukcham 73'), Sulanjana Raul.

With another match ahead, the Indian team will aim to build on this performance and finish the tour with a morale-boosting win.