Football – India U20 Women Clinch 4-0 Victory in Sweden Tour Friendly
Football – India’s Under-20 women’s football team delivered a confident performance on Sunday, defeating Swedish club Taby FK’s senior side 4-0 in a friendly at the Boson National Sports Centre in Lidingo, Sweden. The result marked a strong response from the Young Tigresses after an earlier setback on the tour.
Confident Comeback After Opening Defeat
The victory came four days after India fell short against Hammarby IF in their first match of the Sweden tour. Determined to bounce back, the team showed greater composure and sharper finishing in their second outing.
Head coach Joakim Alexandersson opted for significant changes, reshuffling the squad with nine alterations to the starting lineup. The tactical adjustments appeared to pay off as the players settled quickly and dictated the tempo from the opening whistle.
Early Goals Set the Tone
India took control of the contest inside the first quarter of the match. Babita Kumari opened the scoring in the 10th minute, capitalizing on an attacking move that caught the Swedish defense off guard. Just ten minutes later, Lhingdeikim doubled the lead, finishing calmly to put India firmly in command.
The early strikes not only boosted confidence but also disrupted Taby FK’s rhythm. India maintained steady possession and continued to press forward, limiting the opposition’s chances through disciplined defending and coordinated midfield play.
Second-Half Dominance Seals Result
After heading into the break with a comfortable two-goal cushion, India returned with the same attacking intent. Babita Kumari added her second of the match in the 63rd minute, reinforcing her impact as one of the standout performers of the day.
Neha completed the scoring in the 80th minute, converting a well-worked opportunity to make it 4-0. The closing stages saw India maintain defensive discipline, ensuring goalkeeper Ribansi Jamu remained largely untroubled as the team secured a clean sheet.
Preparation for AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup
The Sweden tour forms a key part of India’s preparations for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup scheduled to take place in Thailand in April. Competing against European opposition is expected to provide valuable international exposure and help the squad adapt to varied playing styles.
The team will continue its tour with two more friendlies. India are set to face Enskede IK Dam on February 25, followed by Karlbergs BK on February 28. These fixtures are aimed at sharpening match fitness and refining tactical combinations ahead of the continental tournament.
Squad Rotation Reflects Development Focus
Coach Alexandersson’s decision to rotate the squad extensively underlines the broader objective of testing depth and building cohesion. Several players were introduced as substitutions in the second half, allowing the coaching staff to assess different combinations under competitive conditions.
The starting lineup featured Ribansi Jamu in goal, with Sahena TH, Shruti Kumari, captain Nishima Kumari, and Neha forming part of the defensive and midfield structure. Babita Kumari and Lhingdeikim led the scoring effort, while substitutions in the latter stages ensured fresh energy across the pitch.
The comprehensive win not only restores momentum but also strengthens belief within the squad as they continue their international campaign. With two matches still to play on Swedish soil, the Young Tigresses will look to maintain consistency and carry this positive form into the upcoming Asian competition.