Indian U23 Football Team Held To Stalemate By Kyrgyz Republic In Friendly

Last Updated:June 22, 2025, 16:50 IST

The exhibition game, which was held in Tajikistan, was part of the Blue Colts' preparation for the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Indian U23 Football Team. (X)

The Indian U23 Football team played out a spirited draw against the Kyrgyz Republic in a friendly between the sides in Tajikistan on Sunday.

The game was part of the Blue Colts’ preparation for the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers. India went down 2-3 to hosts Tajikistan in the previous exhibition game.

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The team’s head coach Naushad Moosa made eight changes to his starting lineup from the game against Tajikistan, with only defenders Pramveer, Bikash Yumnam, and Abhishek Singh Tekcham retaining their places.

Despite these changes, the Kyrgyz Republic appeared more energetic for most of the first half on Saturday, while India attempted to create opportunities through their quick wingers.

Determined not to give up, the Blue Colts fought back and gradually found their rhythm as half-time approached. Calmer and more composed in possession, India finally started to create chances.

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Parthib Sundar Gogoi had a powerful shot saved in the 38th minute, and six minutes later, he troubled the Kyrgyz defence again with a low free-kick at the near post, forcing Kyrgyz keeper Chomoev Sultan into a diving save.

Another opportunity was missed just a minute before the break when Vibin Mohanan found an unmarked Pramveer at the far post. However, the centre-back’s header went over the crossbar.

Neither team managed to score in the second half, despite coming close on several occasions.

(With Inputs From PTI)

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Location :

Tajikistan

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