The India Under-20 women’s national team delivered a resounding performance on Wednesday, defeating hosts Uzbekistan 4-1 in their second international friendly at the Do’stlik Stadium in Tashkent. The win follows a 1-1 draw in the first match, showing clear signs of progress under coach Joakim Alexandersson.
Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam starred with a brace, netting in the 28th and 85th minutes, while Sulanjana Raul (65’) and Neha (71’) added a goal each to the commanding scoreline. Uzbekistan’s only reply came in the 37th minute via Shakhnoza Dekanbaeva.
Alexandersson made two key changes to his starting XI, Juhi Singh replacing Nishima Kumari in defense, and Arina Devi Nameirakpam coming in for Lhingdeikim in midfield. Uzbekistan rotated more heavily, altering four players from the side that drew earlier in the series.
India took the initiative early in the game. In the 28th minute, Sibani gave the visitors the lead by calmly slotting home a cross from Neha. Uzbekistan hit back swiftly, leveling the score nine minutes later when Dekanbaeva found the back of the net, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
The Young Tigresses emerged from the break with renewed intensity. Sulanjana Raul restored India’s lead in the 65th minute, taking two deft touches to control a lofted pass from Cindy Colney before finishing confidently.
Just six minutes later, Sulanjana turned provider, springing Neha free with a precise through ball on a counterattack. Neha, showing impressive composure, lobbed Uzbekistan goalkeeper Ezoza Sevinova from outside the box to make it 3-1.
Despite a minor setback when Cindy Colney was shown a red card for a tackle late in the second half, India remained in control. In the 85th minute, substitute Bhumika Devi Khumukcham danced past two defenders and squared it to Sibani, who slotted her second goal of the day into the bottom corner, sealing a dominant 4-1 victory.
With this win, the Young Tigresses wrapped up their two-match tour with an unbeaten record, offering promising signs ahead of future international competitions. The performance showcased both attacking flair and depth, as India’s U-20 side continues its rise on the continental stage.
