Kanungo’s late brace hands them a 5-3 win over Pakistan
Thailand: The Indian women’s futsal team mounted a sensational comeback to defeat Pakistan 5-4 in the SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship at the Nonthaburi Stadium, Thailand on Monday.
Pakistan drew first blood in the fourth minute when captain Kayanat Bokhari drilled a first-time shot into the top corner. India responded with relentless pressure, creating several opportunities, but the Pakistan goalkeeper Zeeyana Jivraj denied early attempts from Arya More, Mithila Ramani, and Pooja Gupta. India finally equalised in the 14th minute when Arya More capitalised on a pass from Ritika Singh, finishing into the bottom corner.
The second half saw a frantic spell as Pakistan regained the lead through Azwa Chaudhry (26’) and Anmol Hira (27’), taking a 3-1 advantage. India coach Joshuah Vaz then opted for an aggressive attacking setup, introducing Diti Kanungo to add firepower. Ritika Singh (28’) and Khushbu Saroj (29’) scored in quick succession to level the game at 3-3.
With just over three minutes left, Arya More drove a low shot from distance, which Diti Kanungo deflected past Jivraj to make it 4-3. Kanungo completed the turnaround in stoppage time, finishing off a move set up by Khushbu Saroj to seal the 5-3 win. Diti Kanungo now shares the lead as the tournament’s top scorer alongside Khushbu Saroj. The win takes India to nine points from four games, topping the group
