Defending champions India registered a commanding 5-0 victory over Malaysia in their Women’s Junior Asia Cup match on Monday, overcoming a slow start to secure their third consecutive win against the Southeast Asian team in the tournament’s history. India previously defeated Malaysia 9-1 in 2015 and 2-1 in 2023.
Fresh off a 13-1 rout of Bangladesh, India struggled initially to break through Malaysia’s strong defensive setup. However, once they scored the opener, the floodgates opened, and the defending champions showed their dominance.
The breakthrough came in the third quarter after several missed opportunities. In the 32nd minute, India earned a penalty corner. Opting for a tactical variation, Puja Sahoo directed the ball left to Vaishnavi Phalke, who expertly slotted it into the net. This goal injected momentum into India’s play, setting the stage for a dominant performance.
Just five minutes later, India doubled the lead through star drag-flicker Deepika. A perfectly executed penalty corner saw her powerful flick soar past Malaysia’s goalkeeper.
A minute later, Binima Dhan’s swift dribble along the right flank led to a brilliant setup for Kanika Siwach, who scored a stunning field goal from distance, taking the score to 3-0.
In the 39th minute, India earned a penalty stroke after Lalrinpuii was fouled by Malaysia’s goalkeeper. Deepika calmly stepped up and converted from the spot to extend the lead to 4-0.
India capped off the performance in the final quarter with another penalty corner in the 48th minute. Deepika fired a low-driven shot into the goal, completing her hat-trick and sealing India’s emphatic 5-0 win.
The victory ensures India remains in second place in the group standings, tied on points with China but trailing on goal difference. India’s next challenge will be a crucial faceoff against table-toppers China on December 11 at 20:30 IST.
With the team in fine form and Deepika leading from the front, India will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming match and strengthen their bid to defend the title.
