Debutants India ended their journey at the FIFA Women’s Under-17 World Cup here on Monday in their last group match against Brazil.
India who made it through for the age-group showpiece by virtue of being the hosts, lost to the USA (0-8) and Morocco (0-3) in their first Group A matches.
Summing up they finished last in the group of four without any points, losing 16 goals in three matches.
Brazil and the USA, who beat Morocco 4-0 in the second Group A match together in Margao, qualified for the quarter-finals, with seven points each – two wins and a draw. Brazil and USA played a 1-1 draw on 14 October.
With nothing to lose India put its best step forward in its debut match. Against the USA the Indians chased the ball heavily and tried to stay organized and in shape against their physically and technically far superior opponents. However, they could not make enough passes to make a proper move towards the opposition’s defensive third, exposing their technical weaknesses. In the second half, the relentless efforts by the Indians failed to defend their defence against Brazil who resolved the issue by scoring two goals from long range in the second half.
First, Aline curled a powerful right foot into the top left corner of Melody’s goal in the 51st minute, leaving the Indian goalkeeper no chance.
Just four minutes before the end of regulation time, Lara fired another shot from outside the box to defeat Melody – what was otherwise a fine outing with some fine saves – all ending for the fourth goal of the match.