India U23 Lose 0–1 to Tajikistan in Tri-Nation Championship Clash

UPIA (Arunachal Pradesh), April 1 (ANI): The India U23 men’s national football team suffered a narrow 0–1 defeat against Tajikistan in a crucial encounter of the U23 Tri-Nation Championship 2026, held on Tuesday at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed.

Despite creating multiple chances and maintaining sustained attacking pressure, the Blue Colts were unable to find an equaliser as Tajikistan held firm to secure victory. With this result, Tajikistan clinched the Tri-Nation Championship title, finishing with two wins from two matches and keeping clean sheets in both fixtures. India ended the tournament in second place with one win, while Bhutan finished third without a point.

Tajikistan took an early lead in a fast-paced contest. After India failed to convert an early opportunity through Suhail—set up by a precise through ball from Muhammad Sanan—Tajikistan struck in the ninth minute. Azizbek’s long-range effort took a deflection off Pramveer Singh, leaving goalkeeper Mohan Raj with little chance as the ball found the net.

India responded positively, continuing to push forward and generate chances. McCarton was instrumental in attack, delivering several dangerous balls into the box. In the 14th minute, he set up Suhail with a well-timed cut-back, but the striker’s close-range effort was brilliantly saved by Tajikistan goalkeeper and captain Gaforov Safarmad.

The match developed into an end-to-end contest, with both sides creating opportunities. Tajikistan came close to doubling their lead in the 21st minute, but Mohan Raj produced a fine double save to keep India in the game. India continued to threaten from wide areas through Sanan’s crosses, though the finishing touch remained elusive.

Midway through the first half, Tajikistan were forced into a change as goalkeeper Gaforov sustained an injury and was replaced by Mahmudzoda Shahobiddin. Despite India’s sustained attacking intent, they went into halftime trailing 0–1.

After the break, India introduced Musa Lalthankima and Lalremtluanga Fanai in an effort to increase attacking intensity. The substitutions injected fresh energy, with Fanai delivering a dangerous set-piece early in the second half, though Pramveer was unable to connect.

India continued to press and came close again around the hour mark, but Mahmudzoda remained solid between the posts. Tajikistan also threatened on the counter, forcing Mohan Raj into another important save.

Late in the game, substitute Addison Singh Thokchom delivered a teasing cross from the left, but Lalthankima failed to convert. As time wound down, India pushed forward relentlessly, with Ronnie Wilson making a crucial interception to prevent a second goal for Tajikistan.

In stoppage time, Fanai won a free-kick outside the box, but Suhail’s effort sailed over the crossbar. Despite sustained pressure and numerous opportunities, India U23 were unable to break through a disciplined Tajikistan defence, as the visitors sealed the victory and lifted the U23 Tri-Nation Championship title.