Jakarta, Oct 13 (UNI) The India U23 men’s football team were held to a 1-1 draw by Indonesia in their second friendly at the Gelora Bung Karno Madya Stadium here today.
After a goalless first half, Korou Singh Thingujam (47’) put the Blue Colts in the lead, but Dony Tri Pamungkas (71’) equalised for the hosts.
India had defeated Indonesia 2-1 in their first friendly, after which head coach Naushad Moosa made six changes to the starting lineup.
Indonesia pressed aggressively from the start, seeking revenge for their earlier defeat, but India’s defence held firm throughout the first half. In the 10th minute, Muhammad Rayhan Hannan’s shot was comfortably saved by India goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan. Later, Kakang Rudianto’s header from a set-piece was tipped over the bar by Chauhan, keeping the match scoreless.
India looked for counter-attacking opportunities, with Ricky Meetei’s long-range shot narrowly missing the target, and Vibin Mohanan’s effort from the edge of the box being saved just before half-time.
The Blue Colts started the second half brightly and took the lead within two minutes. Harsh Palande’s low cross from the left found Korou unmarked in the box, and he tapped in to score. Minutes later, substitute Muhammed Suhail’s attempt was blocked by the Indonesian defence.
Indonesia earned a free-kick outside the India box after a foul by Sumit Sharma, which Dony Tri Pamungkas converted in the 71st minute to level the score.
Towards the end, Moosa introduced further substitutes, including Priyansh Dubey in goal, who made a stunning save from Rifqi Ray Farandi’s long-range effort.
India U23 lineup: Dipesh Chauhan (GK), Muhammed Saheef, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Ricky Meetei Haobam, Bikash Yumnam (C), Ayush Chhetri, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Mohammed Aimen, Vibin Mohanan, Sreekuttan MS, Parthib Gogoi.
