Photo Credit: AIFF / Twitter

In what turned out to be a triumphant day for Indian football, the India U-20 and the U-16 teams recorded victories over Argentina U-20 and Iraq U-16 respectively.

A 10-men Indian side registered a shock 2-1 victory over Argentina in the U-20 COTIF Cup in Spain. Deepak Tangri opened the scoring for India as early as the fourth minute. Floyd Pinto’s boys were then reduced to ten on the field when Aniket Yadav was sent off. Despite being a man short, India doubled their lead owing to a sensational free-kick from Anwar Ali in the 68th minute. The Argentines did get a goal back a few minutes later, but India defended valiantly to hold their lead and seal victory.

The Indian squad consisted of eight players from the 2017 U-17 FIFA World Cup side. Argentina are the most successful side with six FIFA U-20 World Cup titles to their name, emphasising the significance of India’s victory.

Over at the 2018 West Asian Football Federation Championship, the Indian U-16 team saw off Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-16 champions Iraq on Sunday night in Jordan. In what was a brilliant display of attacking football, India dominated the game creating a host of chances throughout. However, the youngsters had to rely on a last-gasp header from Bhuvenesh to clinch victory. The inspiring performance will serve as a huge boost of confidence as the team prepares for next month’s AFC U-16 Championship in Malaysia.

In a press release by the All India Football Federation, head coach of the U-16 team Bibiano Fernandes took the opportunity to thank the fans for their support. “I would like to dedicate this win to all my fellow Indian Coaches who train the boys before they join us at the AIFF Academy and eventually the National Team. We need to start believing in ourselves. The team thanks the fans and well-wishers of Indian Football who have always stood by us.”

Related tags:

2017-2018