In a dominant display, the senior India women's team defeated Maldives 11-1 in their second FIFA friendly match, with debutant forward Lhingdeikim scoring four goals. The Blue Tigresses led 6-1 at half-time, with Lhingdeikim (12’, 16’, 56’, 59’) and fellow debutant Nongmeikapam Sibani Devi (45+1’) leading the charge. Despite making wholesale changes to the starting XI, India was in full control throughout the match, with their only blemish being Maldives' goal in the 27th minute. Lhingdeikim sealed her impressive debut with a classy goal in the 59th minute, securing a comfortable win for India.
Debutant Shines as India Women's Team Crushes Maldives in FIFA Friendly
In a dominant performance, the senior India women's football team secured an impressive 11-1 victory over Maldives in their second FIFA friendly match. The highlight of the match was the scintillating debut of forward Lhingdeikim, who scored a remarkable four goals.
Match Summary
India showcased their class right from the start, controlling the match and taking an early lead through Lhingdeikim. The debutant striker added another goal just minutes later, setting the tone for the match. The Blue Tigresses continued to dominate, with Lhingdeikim completing her hat-trick just after half-time.
Maldives managed to score a consolation goal in the 27th minute, but it was a brief respite as Lhingdeikim struck again in the 59th minute to seal her impressive debut. Fellow debutant Nongmeikapam Sibani Devi also got on the scoresheet, adding to India's tally with a goal in the first half.
Debutant Impresses
Lhingdeikim made an unforgettable debut for the India women's team, showcasing her exceptional finishing abilities and becoming the first Indian footballer to score four goals on debut. Her performance was a testament to the growing talent and depth within the team.
Team Performance
Despite making wholesale changes to the starting lineup, India maintained their dominance throughout the match. Their possession-based style of play allowed them to create numerous chances, while their defense remained solid, limiting Maldives' opportunities.
Background
The FIFA friendly matches against Maldives were part of India's preparation for the upcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup, scheduled for January 2022 in India. The Blue Tigresses are eager to perform well in the tournament, having finished as runners-up in the previous edition.
Top 5 FAQs
Lhingdeikim is a young forward from Manipur who made her debut for the India women's team in the second FIFA friendly against Maldives.
Lhingdeikim scored four goals on her debut for India, becoming the first Indian footballer to achieve this feat.
India defeated Maldives 11-1 in the second FIFA friendly match.
The India women's team is preparing for the upcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup, which will be held in India in January 2022.
India's best performance in the AFC Women's Asian Cup was finishing as runners-up in the 2010 edition.
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