India marked their return to the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup after 21 years with a 0-2 loss against Australia in a group B clash at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre in China on Saturday.India showed intent at the start of the contest against a physically strong Australian side but could not measure up to the challenge. The Junior Matildas scored the opening goal in the 25th minute through Theodora Mouithys and an own goal by Abhista Basnett in the second half put the game beyond reach.Australia were the better side from start to finish. The last edition’s quarterfinalists created early chances with Sakura Leong’s attempt being blocked by goalkeeper Munni Bhambhu. Willa Pearson then went close with another effort, but India had no answer when Mouithys picked up Claire Corbett’s through ball and finished with a curling strike past the keeper.Despite the setback, India rarely panicked or lost shape, and made a promising start to the second half. Pritika Barman had a good look at the opponent’s goal before sending her effort wide, while Alva Devi Senjam also tried to push the team forward.India’s push received a blow just before the hour mark when Abhista’s attempt to clear Corbett’s cross landed into her own net.Captain Julan Nongmaithem tested goalkeeper Dali Gorr Burchmore almost immediately and Redima Devi Chingkhamayum’s long-range effort drew another save as Australia kept a clean sheet in the opener.In another group clash, Rara Higuchi led with a hat-trick as Japan got their campaign off to a flying start with a 13-0 win over Lebanon.India next face Japan on Tuesday.
