India U20 women edge Kazakhstan 3-2 in first of two friendlies

New Delhi [India], October 26 (ANI): The India U20 women's football team began their preparatory tour of Kazakhstan on a winning note, defeating the Kazakhstan U19 side 3-2 in the first of two friendly matches at the BIIK Sports Complex in Shymkent on Saturday.

Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam opened the scoring in the second minute, turning in Neha's cross from the right, before Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam doubled the lead in the 15th minute, again assisted by Neha, as per the AIFF website.

Kazakhstan pulled one back through a Zhanel Talasbayeva penalty in the 23rd minute, but Pooja restored India's two-goal advantage before half-time, finishing off a fine delivery from right-back Remi Thokchom.

Nazym Aldanazar converted another penalty late in the game for the hosts, but India held firm to secure the victory.

The Young Tigresses will face Kazakhstan again on October 28 as part of their preparations for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026.

India U20 Women: Monalisha Devi Moirangthem (GK) (Ribansi Jamu 46'), Remi Thokchom, Thoibisana Chanu Toijam (Nishima Kumari 46'), Arina Devi Nameirakpam (Lhingdeikim 46'), Neha (Khushbu Saroj 71'), Pooja, Sibani Devi Nongmaikapam (Babita Kumari 71'), Shubhangi Singh (C) (Viksit Bara 71'), Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam (Deepika Pal 46'), Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Kajol Dsouza. (ANI)

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