Kolkata, Oct. 8 -- A new-look Indian women's national team held their own for much of the first half before conceding a 0-4 defeat to Russia in the first of two international friendlies at a rain-soaked Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Thursday.
Iana Sheina's moment of brilliance gave the visitors the lead in the 40th minute, and substitute Kira Petukhova struck twice in the 60th and 65th minutes. Iana Svistunova completed the scoring in the 81st minute as Russia's sustained pressure wore down the Blue Tigresses after the break.
Head coach Crispin Chettri used the occasion to test his emerging players, handing international debuts to Babysana Devi Thingbaijam, Malati Munda, Cindy Colney, Shubhangi Singh, Dhurga Perumal and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam. Goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem made her first start and earned her third cap overall.
The 69th-ranked Blue Tigresses faced a considerable challenge against 27th-ranked Russia in what was India's first-ever women's international match in Kolkata. Yet, for much of the opening half, the hosts defended with discipline and created opportunities that could have changed the course of the contest.
Russia enjoyed more possession and territorial control, pushing players forward to stretch India's defensive shape. The Blue Tigresses responded with a compact block, tracking runners and closing passing lanes, while Monalisha stood firm behind them.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.