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India's U20 Women's Team Faces Heavy Loss Against Japan in AFC Cup Opener

Gyanhigyan english April 03, 2026 03:40 AM

In their first match of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026, the Indian U20 women's national team experienced a tough defeat, losing 0-6 to Japan at the Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani, Thailand, on April 2, 2026. The Young Nadeshiko led 1-0 at halftime.

Match Highlights

According to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Japan, a six-time champion, took an early lead thanks to an own goal by Thoibisana Chanu Toijam in the 12th minute. The second half saw Japan dominate, with goals from Miki Kimura (54'), Noa Fukushima (57'), Natsumi Tago (75'), Miyu Matsunaga (81'), and Yura Honda (87').

India's Strong First Half

Despite the eventual scoreline, India started positively, with Shubhangi Singh and Sulanjana Raul creating opportunities on the left flank. Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam was set up for a chance, but her low cross was intercepted. Japan quickly responded, with Kimura hitting the crossbar just two minutes later. The opening goal came from a free-kick by Fukushima, which deflected off Thoibisana's foot into the net.

India's Efforts to Fight Back

India continued to push for an equalizer, with Monalisha making a crucial save against Anon Tsuda in the 21st minute. Sulanjana's run down the left led to a low cross that narrowly missed Lhingdeikim. As the half progressed, a free-kick from Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam found Thoibisana, but she was ruled offside.

Japan's Dominance in the Second Half

After halftime, Japan intensified their attack. Five minutes in, Fukushima hit the woodwork from a free-kick. They doubled their lead shortly after when Haruko Suzuki's cross found Kimura, who scored with a left-footed shot that slipped past India’s goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem. Japan's third goal came from Fukushima, who skillfully maneuvered past the Indian defense. Tago added a fourth with a long-range shot, and Matsunaga and Honda sealed the match with two more goals.

Group C Standings and Future Matches

Following this match, Japan leads Group C in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026, while India sits at the bottom. Australia, who won against Chinese Taipei 5-0 earlier, is in second place, with Chinese Taipei in third. The top two teams and two of the best third-place teams will advance to the knockout stage. India’s next matches are against Australia on April 5 at 14:30 IST and Chinese Taipei on April 8 at 14:30 IST.