Heartbreak for India as Last-Gasp Vietnam Goal Clinches 2-1 Win in AFC Asian Cup Opener

India's return to the AFC Women's Asian Cup ended in heartbreak as a goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time condemned them to a 2-1 defeat against a higher-ranked Vietnam in Perth on Wednesday. Nguyen Thi Van Su scored twice for Vietnam, including the dramatic 90+4th minute winner that cancelled out a dream debut goal from India's Sanfida Nongrum.

The match, held at Perth Rectangular Stadium, marked India's first appearance in the tournament proper since 2003 and a crucial first step in the qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Vietnam, ranked 36th globally compared to India's 67th, started as favourites and controlled large periods of the game. Their pressure paid off on the half-hour mark when Van Su curled a fine strike past Indian goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam.

Despite the setback and a pre-tournament controversy surrounding ill-fitting kits supplied by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the Blue Tigresses showed immense spirit. Head Coach Amelia Valverde's half-time substitutions proved inspired, with debutant Sanfida Nongrum, who came on as a substitute, levelling the scores in the 52nd minute with a well-taken strike. Goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu was exceptional, making several crucial saves to keep India in the contest as Vietnam pushed for a winner.

However, just as it seemed India had secured a valuable point, Vietnam struck again. A failure to clear a cross allowed Van Su to pounce in the box and seal the victory in the dying moments of the match.

The loss puts India under pressure in a tough Group C. They will need to secure positive results in their upcoming fixtures against two-time champions Japan and Chinese Taipei to keep their hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals and a potential World Cup qualification alive.