India’s U17 Girls Lose 0-3 to Thailand

India’s U17 women’s team faced their second consecutive defeat in Group A of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers Round 2, falling 0-3 to Thailand, who hosted the match. Prior to this, they had suffered a heavy loss to defending champions Korea Republic with a score of 0-8.

Thailand dominated the game from the outset, and they took the lead just over 15 minutes into the match with a penalty converted by their captain, Rinyaphat Moondong, after Madison Jade Casteen’s strike hit the woodwork. Within a couple of minutes, Thailand doubled their lead with a stunning free-kick from Julaiporn Jaimulwong, finding the top corner from 25 yards out. Casteen, who had earlier hit the woodwork, redeemed herself by converting another penalty in the 23rd minute.

Despite the early setbacks, India regrouped and attempted counterattacks, with Pooja being a focal point of their offense. However, Thailand’s high defensive line often caught Pooja offside.

In the second half, Thailand continued to press, but India’s defense held firm, avoiding any set-piece opportunities for the hosts. After approximately 20 minutes of sustained pressure, Casteen scored her second of the night with a long-range effort, making it 4-0.

India had their moments, including a disallowed goal for Sulanjana Raul due to offside. Despite Thailand’s late attacks, India’s defense prevented further damage, but they remain at the bottom of the table. Their next match is against Iran on September 23.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The News 18 English