The India U23 men’s football team wrapped up their two-match friendly series in Indonesia unbeaten, following a hard-fought 1–1 draw against the hosts at the Gelora Bung Karno Madya Stadium on Monday.
The Blue Colts, who had edged Indonesia 2–1 in the first game, produced another disciplined performance to end their short overseas tour on a positive note one win and one draw. While the match lacked the attacking fluency of the opening fixture, India’s defensive organisation, midfield discipline, and moments of creative flair ensured a steady outing for head coach Naushad Moosa’s evolving squad. The highlight of the evening was the return and redemption of Korou Singh Thingujam, who marked his comeback to competitive football with a goal that symbolised resilience as much as skill.
Balanced First Half, Missed Chances at Both Ends
Both teams entered the second friendly missing key names. India were without the services of Paramveer Singh, Abhishek Halder, Macarton Rodrigues, and Sanan Singh, while Indonesia fielded a domestic-heavy squad with none of their Netherlands-based players. Despite the absentees, the opening exchanges were energetic, with Indonesia eager to avenge their defeat from the first game.
Indonesia began brightly, pushing high up the pitch and testing India’s defensive structure. Goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan was called into action early, diving to his right to deny Muhammad Rayhan Hannan in the 10th minute. Moments later, Kakang Rudianto rose highest from a set-piece and powered a header goalwards, but Chauhan produced a spectacular fingertip save to keep the scoreline intact.
India, meanwhile, relied on quick transitions led by Ricky Meetei and Vibin Mohanan, who tried their luck from distance. Ricky’s 25-yard effort whizzed past the far post, while Vibin’s curling strike just before halftime was comfortably held by the Indonesian custodian. Despite half-chances at both ends, the opening period ended goalless a reflection of the disciplined defensive setups from both sides.
Korou’s Comeback Moment
India emerged from the break with renewed purpose and instantly reaped rewards. Within two minutes of the restart, substitute Harsh Palande broke free down the left and whipped in a low cross. Arriving perfectly at the right time, Korou Singh, who had come off the bench, made no mistake, side-footing home from close range in the 47th minute to give India the lead. The goal was not just a tactical success but a deeply emotional one. Korou, who had been away from football for personal reasons, marked his return with a clinical finish a testament to his perseverance and potential.
The goal epitomised team coordination too, with the move starting from deep in India’s half, involving five players and slick passing sequences before the final cross. A minute later, India nearly doubled their lead when Muhammed Suhail, another second-half substitute, wriggled through two defenders before unleashing a fierce shot that was parried away by the Indonesian keeper. The Blue Colts looked in control at that stage, dictating tempo and maintaining composure in midfield through Vibin Mohanan and Ayush Chhetri.
However, the hosts refused to back down. Indonesia gradually increased pressure, with India conceding a few fouls around their defensive third. One such moment proved costly in the 71st minute when Sumit Sharma brought down his marker just outside the box. From the resulting free-kick, Dony Tri Pamungkas stepped up and curled in a superb strike to make it 1–1, leaving Chauhan rooted to the spot. The equaliser shifted momentum, forcing India to reorganise defensively. Moosa responded with multiple substitutions, including a change in goal as Priyansh Dubey replaced Chauhan for the final minutes.
The young goalkeeper quickly justified his inclusion, pulling off a full-stretch save to deny Rifqi Ray Farandi’s long-range effort in stoppage time. Despite the late pressure, India held firm, demonstrating maturity and teamwork in closing out the game. There were several positives from India’s second friendly. Captain Bikash Yumnam once again led by example, marshalling the backline confidently and completing the full 90 minutes. Sumit Sharma contributed solidly in midfield before being subbed after 78 minutes, while Vibin Mohanan impressed with his distribution and work rate over an hour’s play.
Mohammed Aimen, Sreekuttan MS, and Muhammed Saheef also added energy down the flanks, contributing both defensively and offensively in their respective halves. For Moosa and his staff, the Indonesia tour was a valuable exercise in player assessment and tactical experimentation. Several new faces gained international exposure, and the team’s unbeaten run across two matches reflected the growing depth and cohesion at this age level.
With one win and one draw, the India U23 team can return home with plenty of positives. Beyond the results, the tour showcased the emergence of young names capable of pushing for senior national team roles in the future. Most notably, Korou Singh’s goal his first since returning from a personal break provided an uplifting storyline that resonated beyond the scoreline.
The Blue Colts’ tour of Indonesia underlined India’s gradual progress in youth football, where structured build-up play, composure under pressure, and a willingness to play modern, possession-based football were evident. As the team looks ahead to upcoming AFC competitions and domestic league transitions, performances like these are the foundation blocks for long-term development.
Final Score: 🇮🇳 India U23 1–1 Indonesia U23 🇮🇩
(Goal: Korou Singh 47’ – Dony Tri Pamungkas 71’)
