India’s midfielder Thandamoni Baskey shared a mix of realism and determination after the team’s 0-2 loss to the Australian under-17 team in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup opener. Despite acknowledging missed opportunities, Baskey expressed confidence in the team’s ability to recover in the upcoming matches. Thandamoni played 89 minutes and highlighted India’s discipline against a physically superior opponent, noting that small errors were costly.
India had a clear tactical strategy to counter Australia’s physical advantage, as emphasized by Thandamoni. The team’s mindset, according to her, was to trust in their abilities and face the challenge head-on. Looking ahead, Thandamoni stressed that the team’s focus remains on the remaining group-stage games against Japan and Lebanon.
Substitute Anushka Kumari, who entered the game in the second half, emphasized the need for a more potent attacking approach as India pushed forward post-halftime. Despite showing more intent in the second half with two shots on target, India struggled with finishing. Anushka highlighted the importance of improving execution in front of goal.
Anushka elaborated on India’s tactical adjustment to combat Australia’s physicality by opting for a ground-based game rather than aerial duels. She explained that playing on the ground was a strategic decision to neutralize Australia’s physical strength. With two matches left in the group stage, India will now prepare to face Japan in their next challenge.
