India vs Myanmar women's friendly match: Myanmar edges out India 2-1
The tightly worked-out friendly match at the Thuwunna Stadium ended with Indian senior women's team losing 1-2 against the hosts, Myanmar. The two teams were meeting after more than five years, so the anticipation was a trifle extra for this game.
Myanmar comfortably took the lead quite early, in the 14th minute; Win Theingi Tun of Odisha FC collectively cashed in on a corner when Indian goalkeeper Anshika missed the clearance for the opening goal. A chance for India to get even came about in the 18th minute, as Soumya Guguloth headed Anju Tamang's corner wide.
Even in those moments of setbacks, it found a way to stay strong. Right-back Aruna Bag made her first start for the national team and was very influential in India's defensive work. Indian goalkeeper Panthoi pulled off a crucial one-on-one save in the 42nd minute to stay in the friendly match.
India made a rejuvenated start to the second half as head coach Langam Chaoba Devi made a tactical substitution -- Karishma Shirvoikar coming on for Sandhiya Ranganathan. This move had its impact as Karishma's pace saw her create an opening, and her shot was spilled by Myanmar goalkeeper Myo Mya Mya Nyein to Pyari Xaxa, who pounced and equalized in the 58th minute.
Myanmar regained momentum in the 74th minute to get close to victory in a friendly match against India
However, Myanmar regained the lead in the 74th minute. A defense lethargic on a low free-kick by May Thet Mon Myint allowed San Thaw Thaw to slot the decisive goal past an onrushing goalkeeper. Again, off a set piece, it pointed to how disorganized the Indian team had become in its defense.
They had moments, too, when Pyari Xaxa created two big chances—a wide one and another saved by the goalkeeper. The second half was dominated by India, but they just couldn't get another breakthrough.
This friendly match ended 2-1 in Myanmar's favor. India will look to regroup and get better as they prepare for the second friendly against Myanmar on Friday, July 12. This definitely is a very great series for the Indian side to correct their mistakes and further improve on the strengths ahead of competitive tournaments.