India U23 men’s team edged past Indonesia 2-1 in the first of two Under-23 international friendlies at the Gelora Bung Karno Madya Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Friday, 10th October.
Naushad Moosa-coached Indian colts raced to an early two-goal lead, courtesy a superb brace from Suhail Ahmad Bhat in the 5th and 26th minute, before Dony Tri Pamungkas pulled one back four minutes before half-time. After another intensely fought second half that yielded no goals, the Blue Colts claimed a well-deserved win that underlined both their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Rocked by the opening goal, Indonesia were desperate for the equaliser, but that left gaps behind which India tried their best to exploit. In the 10th minute, Muhammed Suhail’s cutback caused all sorts of problems in the hosts’ defence. The ball ultimately fell for Vibin Mohanan, who struck hard but was denied by a goal-line clearance.
There was no stopping Md Suhail’s onslaught from the left as he cut inside in the 22nd minute, saw his low drive blocked by the defence, gathered the second ball and tried to hit it into the bottom corner, but goalkeeper Cahya Supriadi made a good save.
India head coach Naushad Moosa said, “It was a difficult game, but I really appreciate the boys. Everyone was supporting each other throughout. There are still a lot of things to learn. But yeah, I did say before that it wouldn’t be easy for Indonesia.”
India and Indonesia will meet again in the second friendly on Monday, October 13, at the Gelora Bung Karno Madya Stadium in Jakarta.
