Having played 89 minutes, Thandamoni emphasised that while India showed discipline against a physically dominant side, small errors proved costly.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThis was our first match in the Asian Cup. I feel we did well, but we could have done even better. They didn\u2019t manage to take many shots, and even the one they scored came from our mistake,\u201d Thandamoni, who was crucial in the qualifiers, with a goal and an assist, told aiff.com.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India had entered the match with a clear tactical plan to counter Australia\u2019s physical advantage, a point Thandamoni highlighted while underscoring the team\u2019s mindset.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe coach had given us clear instructions about our roles. They were taller than us, so we had to think about how to deal with that. Our mentality was to believe in ourselves and know that we can do it,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite the setback, the midfielder stressed that the focus within the camp remains firmly on the road ahead, with two crucial group-stage matches still to come against Japan and Lebanon.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe still have two matches left, so we will keep working harder and try to win. There\u2019s a bit of disappointment after the loss, but also a strong feeling from within that we must lift ourselves up,\u201d Thandamoni added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Substitute Anushka Kumari, who came on in the second half, pointed to the need for sharper attacking output as India pushed forward after the break.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe weren\u2019t able to attack much, so we needed to create more attacking positions and keep more shots on target,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India showed greater intent in the second half, registering two shots on target while restricting Australia, but Kumari noted that execution in front of goal remains an area to improve.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAs for the result, the match was very tough, but we gave our best. Our finishing wasn\u2019t good. They were physically stronger than us, and that affected our game a little,\u201d Anushka added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
She also elaborated on India\u2019s tactical approach to neutralise Australia\u2019s physicality, focusing on keeping the ball on the ground rather than engaging in aerial contests.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAs for the result, the match was very tough, but we gave our best. Our finishing wasn\u2019t good. They were physically stronger than us, and that affected our game a little,\u201d Anushka added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
With two matches remaining in the group stage, India will now shift attention to their next challenge against Japan.<\/p>\r\n\r\n