Bengaluru (Karnataka), India, April 7 (ANI): Indian Arrows Women Juniors experienced their initial defeat in the 2024-25 Indian Women's League As they fell behind 0-1 against the hosts from Group B, Roots FC at the Padukone-Dravid Centre For the second phase of Sports Excellence, scheduled for Monday. Maibam Nandeshwori Devi netted the winning goal in the 12th minute.

Consequently, Roots ascended to the first position in Group B with six points from their two matches. Indian Arrows Women Juniors , having defeated Pudhuvai Unicorns and Inter Kashi in their initial two matches, are currently positioned in second place.

The top two teams from this five-team group will advance to the final round. Indian Arrows Women Juniors aim to secure their spot for the final stage when they take on Casa Barwani SC in their concluding game on April 9 at 09:00. This encounter will be broadcast live on the Indian Football YouTube channel.

Once more, head coach Joakim Alexandersson adjusted his lineup with just one change compared to the last game, replacing winger Rupashree Munda with striker Valaina Fernandes.

In the 12th minute, Roots surged ahead with a meticulously executed team goal. Winger Rosy Thanga raced down the left wing and sent a precise low pass into the penalty area towards striker Nandeshwori Devi, who volleyed it home immediately.

The home team was just as solid at the back, stifling Indian Arrows with their resolute defense that prevented any breakthroughs in the center. Under Alexanderson’s guidance, her players took control of the ball for most of the game trying to find an equalizer, yet they failed to pose significant threats to goalkeeper Sonakshi Singh throughout.

The Roots' goalkeeper pulled off a crucial stop, thwarting Julian Nongmaithem’s powerful shot with an extended hand at the beginning of the second half. With time running short, anxiety mounted within the Arrows’ team area, prompting their Swedish mentor to make offensive substitutions. They brought on players such as Tonamabam Taniya Devi, Rupashree Munda, and Gurnaz Kaur.

Valaina nearly found the back of the net with a powerful half-volley from 18 yards away, just missing by mere inches. Viskit Bara, known for scoring from midfield in his previous game, had another impressive try with a 35-yard free kick which almost reached its mark. (ANI)