India forward Soumya Guguloth will not be available for the side’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers against Iraq and Thailand following surgery.
“Soumya Guguloth sustained a nasal bone fracture during the second half of yesterday’s match against Timor-Leste. She was taken to the hospital immediately and successfully underwent surgery last night. She has since been discharged and is now back at the team hotel,” the team’s camp announced.
The 23-year-old is expected to be sidelined for at least a month as she recovers from the injury.
In India’s first qualifier of this campaign, a 13-0 win against Mongolia, Soumya bagged a brace and was a constant threat darting down the left flank.
India currently sits atop Group B — ahead of Thailand on goal difference — as it prepares to face Iraq on Wednesday in its penultimate qualifier.
In its previous match, the Crispin Chettri-coached side defeated Timor-Leste 4-0. Only the group winner will advance to the tournament, which is set to be held in Australia next year.
The Blue Tigresses last qualified for the continental tournament in 2003, although they featured in the 2022 Asian Cup by virtue of being the host nation.
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com