India's Asian Cup Hopes End in 1-3 Loss to Chinese Taipei
Image Source: Internet
Kolkata: India's tryst with Asian elite ended with a 1-3 defeat to Chinese Taipei in the AFC Women's Asian Cup, but Manisha Kalyan's brilliant strike will be remembered. The 24-year-old's cannonball of a left-footer from 25 yards swung powerfully into the horizontal and bounced inside the line before coming back into play, giving India a 1-1 lead in the 39th minute.
Kalyan, who had previously scored an equaliser against Marta's Brazil in 2021, stood out in the match, showcasing her ability to hold the ball under pressure and win fouls. She also showed her prowess with set-pieces, including a corner-kick that Guguloth headed into the framework in the first minute.
However, Chinese Taipei's organisation and transition play ultimately proved too much for India, with Chen Yu-chin and Chen Jin-wen scoring two goals in the 12th and 77th minutes respectively. Panthoi Elangbam and Sweety Devi, two of India's bravest and best performers, were forced to be substituted after a clash, and both had to be taken to hospital.
The loss marks the end of India's Asian Cup hopes, along with Iran, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, who were also eliminated from the tournament.
