After a hard-fought 2-2 draw, India women’s team faced a 1-3 defeat in a shootout against China in the U18 Asia Cup semifinal. India’s Nousheen Naz (3′) and Kiran Ekka (54′) scored, while Li ZeYan (24′) and Zhang Yuzheng (48′) netted for China.
India started strong with an early goal in the third minute by Nousheen. Despite good opportunities, no more goals were scored in the first quarter. China equalized in the 24th minute after a defensive lapse by India.
In the third quarter, China had chances but India’s defense held firm. The match remained tied at 1-1 going into the final quarter. China took the lead in the 48th minute, but India equalized through Kiran in the 54th minute, leading to a 2-2 draw at full time.
In the shootout, China emerged victorious with a 3-1 win. India will now compete for the bronze medal against the losing team of the Japan vs. Korea semifinal match on June 6.
