Substitute Sara Didar’s Brace Sinks India 2-0 as Islamic Republic of Iran Clinch Tri-Nation Friendlies Win
Shillong: The Indian women’s football team’s impressive four-match winning streak came to an end on Tuesday after they suffered a 2-0 defeat against the Islamic Republic of Iran in the opening match of the Tri-Nation Women’s International Friendlies 2025 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.
Part of the October FIFA Women’s International Match Window, the contest saw world No. 63 India enjoy long spells of possession in the first half, but a clinical second-half display by Iran, spearheaded by substitute Sara Didar, sealed the win for the visitors.
Iran, who appeared physically superior and composed on the ball, dictated the rhythm of the game almost from the outset. They looked threatening early on, missing a few scoring opportunities within the first 15 minutes. A key moment came in the fourth minute when a routine cross was fumbled by Indian goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, allowing Fatemeh Shaban Ghohrood a clear sight of goal. Only a desperate clearance from Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi prevented an early Iranian lead.
The Indian defence managed to hold firm until the half-hour mark, but the hosts struggled to convert their possession into meaningful attacks in the final third.
The deadlock was finally broken in the second half by Sara Didar. The substitute forward struck her first goal in the 64th minute and followed up with a decisive second in the 74th minute, proving to be the difference-maker in the tight contest and securing the victory for Iran. The defeat marks a challenging start for the Indian team in the international friendly series.
