India U17 Falls to Indonesia in 1-3 Defeat, Eyes Redemption in Next Match

India U17 men's team lost 1-3 to Indonesia U17 in a friendly match at Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium. Despite various chances, India could only manage one goal and will seek redemption in their next meeting at the same venue on Tuesday.

The India U17 men's team was defeated 1-3 by Indonesia U17 in the first of two friendly matches at Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium in Gianyar, Indonesia, on Sunday. Both teams are set to face off again at the same venue on Tuesday at 17:30 IST.

India faced an early setback when the hosts earned a penalty in the 15th minute. Mierza Firjatullah maneuvered past the goalkeeper and was brought down by Mohammed Kaif, who received a booking. Evandra Florasta converted the penalty, sending Aheibam Suraj Singh the wrong way to give Indonesia an early lead. India attempted to respond, with Bharat Lairenjam's shot on target in the 23rd minute and Ahongshangbam Samson striking the crossbar shortly after.

Indian goalkeeper Suraj Singh stayed busy, making critical saves against Firjatullah and Fabio Azkairawan. Five minutes before halftime, India nearly equalized when a back pass from Mathew Baker caught the Indonesian goalkeeper off guard, but Bharat's effort was cleared off the line by captain Putu Panji.

Early in the second half, India had a golden opportunity to equalize, but Vishal Yadav's effort missed the post by inches. Indonesia capitalized on India's missed chance, doubling their lead through Fandi Ahmad's strike in the 51st minute. India quickly responded with a goal from Levis Zangminlun, narrowing the score to 2-1. However, Indonesia sealed the match with Firjatullah's second goal in the 62nd minute, securing a 3-1 victory. Despite their efforts, the Blue Colts couldn't stage a comeback as the rain poured down in Gianyar.

(With inputs from agencies.)