In a highly anticipated international friendly, India faced off against Vietnam at a packed Thien Truong Stadium.
Under the guidance of new coach Manolo Márquez, the Blue Tigers were eager to break their two-match goalless streak.
Márquez opted for a 4-3-2-1 formation, with Farukh Choudhary making a notable return to the national team after three years. Bengaluru FC’s Naorem Roshan was a surprise starter on the left wing, replacing the likes of Manvir, Liston, and Vikram Partap.
The match was crucial for both teams as they tested their young talents.
The game began evenly, with Vietnam making the first significant attempt just four minutes in following a deflection off Anwar Ali’s feet.
India responded quickly, with Farukh Choudhary taking an ambitious shot from outside the box at the eight-minute mark.
Trouble struck for India in the 10th minute when the referee awarded a penalty to Vietnam after Rahul Bheke’s challenge on the edge of the box.
However, Gurpreet Sandhu, cool as ice, denied the Vietnamese captain, keeping the score level.
This save galvanized Vietnam, who intensified their attacks, posing constant challenges to the Indian defense.
Their persistence paid off when Quang’s shot, though nearly stopped by Sandhu, found the back of the net.
Vietnam maintained pressure, and the teams went into halftime with Vietnam leading 1-0.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Indian side. The Blue Tigers came out with renewed vigor and were soon rewarded.
Farukh Choudhary chipped the ball over the Vietnamese goalkeeper, thanks to a brilliant assist from Anwar Ali, leveling the score.
This goal shifted the momentum in India’s favor and they kept the Vietnamese defense on their toes for much of the second half.
Vietnam’s forwards, however, were not done yet. They mounted three significant attempts, but Sandhu was in exceptional form, thwarting every effort.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, giving Indian fans plenty to cheer about.
It was a hard-fought game, and the Blue Tigers showed resilience and determination, much to the delight of their supporters
Written By Avineet
