October 27, 2025

In a gripping women’s football friendly, Nepal edged out India 2-1 in a nail-biting match filled with brave saves and skillful goals. The game kicked off with India’s midfielder trying a low free-kick, but it was expertly saved. India’s best moment in the first half came in the 32nd minute when Grace Dangmei sprinted down the right and crossed low towards Lynda Kom Serto. Though Lynda missed it, Sangita Basfore’s fierce shot sailed over the goal. Just before halftime, India’s goalkeeper Panthoi showed heroism by stepping off her line to block another dangerous attack from Nepal’s star forward Sabitra. But Sabitra was unstoppable. In the 63rd minute, she dazzled again with a stunning free-kick from close range that curled beautifully into the top corner, beyond Panthoi’s reach. India, featuring a younger squad, kept pushing hard. Forward Pyari Xaxa was put through on the right by Nirmala, but Nepal’s goalkeeper Anjana bravely rushed out to collect the ball. The pressure finally paid off in the 81st minute when a long free-kick by Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi bounced over the Nepal defense and landed perfectly for substitute Karishma Shirvoikar, who slotted it past the keeper to make it 2-1. The Blue Tigresses launched furious attacks in the late minutes but Nepal held firm to protect their lead. This loss marked India’s second defeat in six matches, after their earlier big wins against Mongolia (13-0), Timor-Leste (4-0), Iraq (5-0), and Thailand (2-1) in Chiang Mai. Remember, they also lost 2-0 to Iran last week at the same venue. These friendlies against Iran and Nepal are crucial for India’s preparation ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia. With stars like Sabitra shining bright, all eyes will be on these thrilling teams when the big tournament arrives!

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Tags: Indian women's football, Nepal women's football, Afc asian cup, Blue tigresses, Football friendly matches, Sabitra,