India U20 : The India U20 women’s football team made a thrilling start to their Pink Ladies U20 Youth Cup campaign with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Jordan at the Emirhan Sports Center in Manavgat, Türkiye, on February 19, 2025. Goals from Lhingdeikim and Pooja in the second half secured a stunning comeback win after India trailed at halftime.
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India U20 Women Stage Stunning Comeback to Beat Jordan in Pink Ladies U20 Youth Cup Opener
India’s Dominant Start and Jordan’s Surprise Lead
The Young Tigresses, under head coach Joakim Alexandersson, showcased an attacking mindset from the start, pressing high and dominating possession. Early on, India created multiple scoring opportunities, with Lhingdeikim, Neha, and Pooja actively testing the Jordanian defense.
In the 10th minute, Babita Kumari had a golden chance to give India the lead but was denied by an excellent save from Jordanian goalkeeper Sajida Issa. Despite India’s attacking prowess, Jordan took the lead against the run of play when they were awarded a penalty in the 35th minute. Goalkeeper Monalisha Devi fouled an opposition player in the box, and Jinan Said calmly converted from the spot, giving Jordan a 1-0 advantage at halftime.
Lhingdeikim and Pooja Lead India’s Fightback
Determined to overturn the deficit, India came out firing in the second half. Lhingdeikim, who had been lively throughout, continued to probe the Jordanian defense. In the 63rd minute, she displayed her individual brilliance, beating two defenders before curling a shot into the bottom corner to level the score at 1-1.
With the momentum firmly in India’s favor, head coach Alexandersson introduced fresh legs, bringing on Cindy Colney and Sibani Devi. The substitutions made an immediate impact, with Sibani using her blistering pace to create India’s second goal in the 77th minute. She sprinted down the right flank and delivered a precise cutback to Pooja, who finished clinically from a tight angle to put India ahead 2-1.
India’s Strong Finish and Solid Defense
In the closing minutes, India continued to push for a third goal, while Jordan struggled to mount a comeback. Deep into injury time, substitute Monisha Singha set up Neha in a perfect scoring position, but the winger fired her shot over the crossbar, missing the chance to extend India’s lead.
Despite the missed opportunity, the Indian defense remained resolute, ensuring Jordan had no further chances to equalize. The final whistle confirmed India’s well-deserved victory, marking Alexandersson’s third consecutive win as India’s head coach after two friendly victories with the senior team earlier this year.
What’s Next for India U20 Women?
Following their triumphant start, the Young Tigresses will play two more matches in the Pink Ladies U20 Youth Cup. Their next challenge comes against Hong Kong on February 22, followed by a clash against Russia on February 25, both at the same venue in Türkiye.
India U20 Women’s Lineup:
Starting XI: Moirangthem Monalisha Devi (GK), Shubhangi Singh, Alina Chingakham (Nishima Kumari 46′), Sahena TH, Toijam Thoibisana Chanu, Kayenpaibam Anju Chanu (Cindy Remruatpuii Colney 46′), Pooja, Kajol Dsouza (C) (Monisha Singha 84′), Babita Kumari (Nongmeikapam Sibani Devi 62′), Lhingdeikim, Neha.
India’s remarkable comeback victory against Jordan sets the tone for an exciting tournament ahead, as the Young Tigresses aim to continue their winning momentum and make a strong statement in international youth football.
FAQs
When and where did India U20 Women play against Jordan?
The match was held on February 19, 2025, at the Emirhan Sports Center in Manavgat, Türkiye.
How did India U20 Women win against Jordan?
India staged a comeback after trailing 1-0 at halftime, with second-half goals from Lhingdeikim and Pooja securing a 2-1 victory.
