THE NMI U20 Women’s National Team faced a formidable opponent, Jordan, in their opening match of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, falling 6-1 in a contest filled with lessons, determination, and grit at Dustlik Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Despite the soaring heat and relentless pressure from Jordan, the young NMI squad battled hard throughout the full 90 minutes.
From the opening whistle, Jordan came out strong with constant harassment and controlled most of the early possession. Just two minutes in, NMI slipped defensively, allowing Jordan to capitalize on a midfield cross. Arwa Batayneh found the back of the net, putting NMI on the back foot, 1-0.
Although NMI adjusted their strategy and held off Jordan for most of the first half, they were overwhelmed again in the 45th minute when Kinda Al-Titi connected on the second goal, making it 2-0.
Though the NMI defense worked tirelessly to maintain its shape, Jordan’s high press and clinical finishing continued to test the squad. Kinda Al-Titi proved to be a dominant force, completing her hat trick with goals in the 57th and 59th minutes, extending Jordan’s lead to 4-0.
But NMI refused to go down quietly. Their highlight of the night came in the 74th minute when Megan Elayda slotted home a goal that showcased the team’s resilience and spirit, narrowing the gap to 4-1.
However, Jordan quickly responded, with Haya Abu Ali scoring twice in quick succession in the 83rd and 88th minutes to seal a 6-1 victory.
Though the final score may not reflect it, the match served as an important developmental opportunity for NMI’s players.
The team now looks ahead to their next challenge — a clash against host nation Uzbekistan on Saturday, Aug. 9 at 1:30 a.m. Saipan time.
The NMI U20 Women’s National Team members pose for a group photo before their debut match against Jordan in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers at the Dustlik Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Wednesday evening.
NMIFA photo
NMI U20 Women’s National Team’s Aubrey White attempts to intercept the possession against Jordan during their match in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers at the Dustlik Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Wednesday evening.
NMIFA photo
