India kicked off determined to end their tour with a win but Venezuela forced goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan into several saves in the opening minutes. 

India, however, continued to work hard and found the opening goal in the 18th minute through a free-kick with Ritu Rani’s curler finding Dangmei, who rose highest to head home. 

Venezuela pressed forward in search of the equaliser but found Chauhan in top form as India took their lead into the break. 

Head coach Thomas Dennerby made three changes in the second half but it was Venezuela substitute Marianna Speckmaier who made an impact just six minutes in, tapping in from close range to make it 1-1. 

Dangmei continued to lead India’s attack with efforts in the 64th and 69th minutes but Venezuela secured victory thanks to Barbara Olivieri’s 80th minute strike. 

India will play Islamic Republic of Iran in their opening AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022 Group A tie on January 20 with Chinese Taipei (January 23) and China PR (January 26) to follow.