India look to maintain good run
The Indian women’s senior team pose on arrival in Ramallah on Sunday.
High on confidence after notching up a double against Bahrain in two international friendlies in the latter’s backyard, the Indian women’s senior national team will look to continue the momentum at the AFC Asian Cup (qualifiers), that gets under way in Ramallah, Palestine, on Tuesday.
The 23-member squad, led by Tuli Goon, alongwith officials reached Ramallah on Sunday. Besides local journalists and photographers awaiting the team, a decent crowd also gathered to watch the arrival of the SAFF champions.
“Palestine is a beautiful place and we are overwhelmed by such a warm reception.
“We hope to play good football here and qualify for the finals,” coach Anadi Barua said on arrival.
“We had two decent games in Bahrain and the girls are motivated. It is a tough group, one that can be called the group of death. We have to put our best foot forward. It is serious business from here on.”
“This is the most important tournament for us. If we play to our potential we can definitely progress to the next level,” felt India captain Tuli.
Midfielder Amoolya Kamal added: “I feel so proud. We were greeted wonderfully here. Palestine seems a lovely place. At the same time I also feel responsible. The country is pinning their hopes on us. We have to do it for them.”
India, placed in Group D, open their account against Myanmar on Tuesday followed by Chinese Taipei on Thursday (May 23) and hosts Palestine on Saturday (May 25).
The squad
Goalkeepers: Okram Roshini Devi, Tikina Samal, Usha Rani Das.
Defenders: Ashem Romi Devi, Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, Suprava Samal, Gurumayum Radharani Devi, Tuli Goon, Lako Phuti Bhutia, Ansha.
Midfielders: Yumnam Kamala Devi, Yumlembam Premi Devi, Supriya Routray, Amoolya Kamal, Dangmei Grace, Oinam Bembem Devi, Sasmita Malik, Paromita.
Forwards: Irom Prameshwori Devi, Salam Rinaroy Devi, Jyoti Ann Burrett, Ngangom Bala Devi, Pinky Bompal Magar.
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