JOIN USDespite India’s tepid start against lowly Ukraine, South Africa skipper Marsha Marescia said they still hold the home side in high regard, adding that the Indians were unlucky in not capitalising on their chances.
On Saturday, India were held to 1-1 draw by Ukraine, considered the weakest team in the pool. It was South Africa’s turn to test the minnows on Sunday and they coasted to a 2-0 victory.
South Africa and India are the two top-ranked teams in the pool. Marescia said the Indians were as skilful as ever and no team can take them lightly.
“You cannot underestimate India. India always have skillful players and they are capable of bouncing back from a goal down. They have sharp skills and their best players are coming to form. It was unfortunate that they could not make the opportunities count against Ukraine,” she said.
The tournament has had two draws so far with Canada and Italy also ending their opening match locked 2-2 and Marescia said the tournament is now open. “We cannot underestimate any team. Yes, the tournament is open now after two draws.”
She also had rich praise for the Ukrainian girls. “Ukraine have a lot of good skill close to the body. They have good deceptive passes and they can create havoc in the opposition defence. We were expecting a really tough match after they drew with India.”