India Women Fall 0–2 to Iran in Opening Match of Tri-Nation Friendlies in Shillong
Shillong, Meghalaya — October 21, 2025:
It was a disappointing start for the Indian senior women’s football team, as the Blue Tigresses suffered a 0–2 defeat against Iran in the opening match of the Tri-Nation Women's International Friendlies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong, on Tuesday.
Iran’s substitute Sara Didar proved to be the difference-maker, scoring twice in the second half to hand the visitors a comfortable victory after a goalless opening period.
Iran Dominate as India Struggle to Find Rhythm
Playing their first match since qualifying for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, India appeared rusty and off-balance for much of the game. In contrast, Iran controlled possession, pressed effectively, and displayed greater composure in midfield and defence.
The hosts looked vulnerable from the outset. In just the fourth minute, goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu fumbled a routine cross, gifting Iran’s Fatemeh Shaban Ghohrood an early chance. Only a desperate clearance from Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi prevented a goal, as the ball grazed the post and rolled out.
Despite the narrow escape, India continued to struggle with organisation and ball control, failing to create any real threat in the attacking third.
Sara Didar’s Brace Sinks Blue Tigresses
Iran’s breakthrough came in the 64th minute. A precise cross from Melika Motevaliitaher found Zahra Ghanbari, whose header hit the crossbar. The rebound fell kindly to Sara Didar, who acrobatically volleyed home the opener from close range.
Ten minutes later, Didar struck again. In the 74th minute, she capitalised on Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi’s defensive error near the edge of the box and fired a low shot past Panthoi, doubling Iran’s lead and effectively sealing the match.
India’s attack showed little urgency, managing their first real attempt only in the 89th minute, when Lynda Kom Serto’s free-kick forced a save from Iran goalkeeper Raha Yazdani.
In stoppage time, Iran nearly made it 3–0 as Ghohrood hit the post after a quick counterattack, but the final whistle came with India already well beaten.
Next Fixtures
With this result, Iran go top of the Tri-Nation standings and will face Nepal on October 24, while India will look to bounce back in their next match against Nepal on October 27.
Final Thoughts — The Trending People
India’s defeat exposed key weaknesses in defence and creativity — issues that coach and players must address ahead of the upcoming Asian Cup in Australia. The lack of sharpness after a long break was evident, and against a disciplined side like Iran, it proved costly.