India Upended by Japan in AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Opener

India's national under-20 women's football team endured a tough opening match in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup, succumbing to a decisive 0-6 defeat against Japan at the Thammasat Stadium on Thursday.

The six-time champions, Japan, swiftly established dominance. An unfortunate own goal by India's Thoibisana Chanu Toijam in the 12th minute kick-started Japan's scoring. Despite occasional promising moments from the Young Tigresses, the second half saw Japan capitalize on their superiority, with Miki Kimura, Noa Fukushima, Natsumi Tago, Miyu Matsunaga, and Yura Honda each netting goals.

As India resumes their campaign, they aim for redemption against Australia and Chinese Taipei in the upcoming matches. The competition's structure allows for the top two teams and two additional best third-place finishers to advance into the knockout stages.