Japan outclass India 6-0 in AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup football opener

India’s return to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U20 Women’s Asian Cup after nearly two decades began on a tough note as six-time champions Japan cruised to a dominant 6-0 victory in their opening Group match at Thammasat Stadium on Thursday.

India showed early promise and started the match with confidence, attempting to build attacks through the flanks. However, Japan struck first in the 12th minute when an unfortunate own goal by Thoibisana Chanu Toijam gave the favourites the lead. The goal came after Noa Fukushima’s free-kick found defender Mitsuki Ota inside the Indian box, with the ball deflecting off Thoibisana and into the net.

Despite trailing early, the Young Tigresses tried to respond with some energetic moves. Shubhangi Singh and Sulanjana Raul combined well on the left to create a chance for Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam , but the opportunity was intercepted before it could trouble the Japanese defence.

Japan gradually tightened their grip on the contest and shifted gears after the break. Miki Kimura doubled the lead in the 54th minute, cutting in from the right and firing a powerful shot that slipped past goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem . Just three minutes later, Noa Fukushima made it 3-0 with a composed finish inside the box.

The pressure continued as substitute Natsumi Tago scored a long-range strike in the 75th minute , before Miyu Matsunaga (81st) and Yura Honda (87th) added two more goals to complete the rout.

India will next face Australia on April 5 , followed by a match against Chinese Taipei on April 8 , as they look to bounce back and stay in contention for a knockout-stage spot .