The Indian under-23 men’s team lost to Tajikistan in the recently concluded Under-23 Tri-Nation International Friendlies in Arunachal Pradesh.
The Indian team were favourites to win, but unfortunately fell short in the final. Midfielder Khaitov Azizbek opened the scoring for Tajikistan in the 9th minute. The Blue Colts tried hard to find the back of the net, but couldn’t convert the chances due to a lack of coordination in the forward line as well as in the midfield.
Even Tajikistan had chances to score during the run of play as well as during the counterattacks, but missed many chances to extend the lead. Blue Tigers were definitely the favourites to win the trophy after an emphatic 5-0 win over Bhutan, but messed it up in the final moments.
Although the tournament ended disappointingly for the Blue Tigers, there were a few positive points that the team can build on and look to improve in other areas. We take a look at the three positive points that the Indian under-23 team can utilise accordingly in the future
Fresh faces grabbing their chances-Players like Parthib Gogoi, Muhammad Suhail (out due to injury), Bikash Yuman (out due to injury), Korou Singh and Vibin Mohanan couldn’t make it to the squad due to injuries or other issues. The squad consisted of names who had either played just a few minutes in the past or were first-timers. Players who played for the first time attracted the spotlight with some impressive performances.
Forward Muhammad Ajsal impressed by scoring a goal against Bhutan, while midfielder Tomba Singh showcased fluency in the midfield against Bhutan and Tajikistan in the final. Midfielder Lalthankima and forward Adinson Singh coordinated brilliantly at the wings, creating chances inside the box.
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Defender Ronney Wilson Kharbudon impressed with his smart tackles during open play against Tajikistan, cutting the attacks from the forward line, and looked solid while keeping the ball in play. Despite getting few chances, the upcoming crop of players is determined to make an impression at the highest level.
Not able to cope with physically stronger teams- The first game against Bhutan hardly tested the physical strength of the players. The match against Tajikistan was a challenge and was a big lesson for the team management as well as the players. Tajikistan was physically stronger, and Indian players failed to win one-on-one contests when they should have won it easily.
Defenders Pramveer Singh and Ronny tried to put up a challenge at the backline but couldn’t match the physicality of Tajikistan players. Apart from physicality, Indian players couldn’t match the speed and pace of Tajikistan players. Indian midfielders and forwards who were employed at the wings found it difficult to penetrate Tajikistan’s defence.
Midfielders couldn’t keep possession, which meant they couldn’t generate attacks regularly to create chances. Indian players can improve physically when they play more games against big clubs that compete in big tournaments. If players need to be sharp fitness-wise and physically strong, then they should be given more game time for their clubs, as some players don’t get enough chances to play for their clubs.
Goalkeeper Mohanraj makes an impression-Indian under-23 coach Naushad Moosa took a risk by including Mohanraj in the squad, and the risk paid off. Sahil Poonia and Dipesh Chauhan were given enough chances, but neither goalkeeper could take the opportunities with both hands.
Even Priyansh Dubey didn’t impress, although he was also given enough chances. It seems Naushad Moosa’s wait is finally over, looking at the performances of Mohanraj, who looked solid guarding India’s territory against Tajikistan.
The SC De Goa and Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper showcased a magnificent performance, denying goal-scoring chances against Tajikistan. The 21-year-old custodian looked rock solid and made some brilliant stops during open play; otherwise, Tajikistan would have scored more goals.
MohanraJ K is surely one to look forward to in the future, who can serve the national side with many more outstanding performances if he is given more game time.
His performances in this tournament would have surely attracted the attention of the selectors, which might help him to progress to the senior national team.
