New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) The India U23 men's team secured a 2-1 victory over hosts Indonesia in their initial friendly match at the Gelora Bung Karno Madya Stadium in Jakarta on Friday, marking a significant stride in their preparations for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan next year.

All the goals were scored in the first half, with Naushad Moosa’s squad taking an early two-goal advantage courtesy of an impressive brace from Suhail Ahmad Bhat (5’ and 26’). Dony Tri Pamungkas managed to score for Indonesia just four minutes before halftime. Following a fiercely contested second half that saw no further goals, the Blue Colts celebrated a well-earned win, showcasing both their attacking strength and defensive resilience.

India exploded into action, taking the lead in just the fifth minute when Suhail Ahmad Bhat intercepted a misplaced pass from Frengky Missa, charged into the box, and launched a right-footed shot into the top corner.

Shocked by the early goal, Indonesia sought an equalizer, but this left gaps that India looked to exploit. In the 10th minute, Muhammed Suhail’s cutback created chaos in the Indonesian defense, with the ball eventually reaching Vibin Mohanan, whose powerful attempt was thwarted by a goal-line clearance.

Md Suhail continued to threaten from the left flank; in the 22nd minute, he cut inside, had his low drive blocked, but quickly gathered the rebound and aimed for the bottom corner, only to be denied by goalkeeper Cahya Supriadi.

The second goal was imminent and arrived in the 26th minute from Suhail Bhat once more. Vibin sent a low cross from the left that found Ayush Chhetri, who laid it off for Suhail Bhat. He outmuscled his defender and unleashed another stunning strike that found the top corner of the net.

India almost made it three in the 29th minute, but the woodwork saved Indonesia. After Md Suhail skillfully nutmegged a defender, he assisted Ayush, whose shot was blocked, and from the corner, Korou Singh Thingujam hit the post with a right-footed effort.

Indonesia regained some hope in the 41st minute when Dony Tri Pamungkas found space on the edge of the box and curled a shot into the top corner, leaving debutant goalkeeper Mohanraj K with no chance.

Looking to complete a comeback, Indonesia’s coach Indra Sjafri made several changes at halftime, but India’s defense became even more robust. The second half was tense, with few opportunities for either side.

The Blue Colts had a chance to increase their advantage in the 57th minute. Right-back Ricky Meetei Haobam delivered a perfect cross to Suhail Bhat, who made good contact with his head but directed it right into Supriadi’s hands.

As the game progressed, Indonesia held more possession, but India remained solid, allowing their opponents to chase the game. The hosts increased pressure in the closing ten minutes, but Moosa’s team defended resolutely. Substitute goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan, also making his debut with the U23 squad, faced minimal threats as India preserved the 2-1 lead until the final whistle.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat was named the player of the match. In the post-match interview, he expressed, “We came here with the intention to win. Our performance in the AFC (U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers) was strong, but we fell short in qualification. However, our desire to win remains. This is just the start, and I dedicate my goals to my teammates who fought until the very end. Scoring feels rewarding, but it’s for the team.”

India’s head coach Naushad Moosa remarked, “It was a challenging match, and I commend the boys for their teamwork. There’s much to learn, but as I mentioned earlier, I anticipated a tough game for Indonesia.”