Defending champion India overcame a slow start to secure a dominant 5-0 victory over Malaysia in their Women’s Junior Asia Cup match on Monday.
This marked its third consecutive win over Malaysia in the tournament’s history, having previously triumphed 9-1 in 2015 and 2-1 in 2023.
After a resounding 13-1 victory over Bangladesh on Sunday, India took time to find its rhythm and faced strong resistance from the Malaysian defence. However, once it scored the opening goal, India continued to build on the lead and delivered a commanding performance.
Deepika (37th, 39th, 48th) scored a hat-trick, while Vaishnavi Phalke (32nd) and Kanika Siwach (38th) added a goal each.
READ | Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024: Preview, schedule, LIVE Streaming info
India missed out on several scoring opportunities. It was in the third quarter that the defending champion started scoring. After earning a penalty corner in the 32nd minute, and this time, instead of going directly for a goal, Puja Sahoo directed the ball slightly to the left, where Vaishnavi Phalke was perfectly positioned to strike it into the net. India capitalized on its newfound momentum to dominate the game.
The second goal came in the 37th minute when India converted another penalty corner. Star drag-flicker Deepika showcased her expertise, firing a powerful shot past the goalkeeper to extend the lead. Just a minute later, India launched a quick counterattack as Binima Dhan dribbled down the right flank and set up Kanika Siwach, who scored a stunning field goal from distance.
In the 39th minute, Lalrinpuii was fouled by Malaysia’s goalkeeper, earning India a penalty stroke. Deepika stepped up and confidently scored from the spot.
In the final quarter, India earned another penalty corner in the 48th minute, and Deepika capitalized with a low-driven shot past the goalkeeper to complete her hat-trick, taking India’s score to 5-0 by the end of the match.
The win ensured India remained in second place, level on points with China, but trailing on goal difference.
India next plays China on December 11 at 20:30 IST.
