Ansor khabibov

The India U23: The India U23 men's side failed to capitalise on their lead twice and suffered a 2-3 defeat at the hands of hosts Tajikistan U23s, after being reduced to 10 men in a friendly match at the TALCO Arena, in Tursunzoda, Tajikistan, on Wednesday.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat (33’) and Parthib Sundar Gogoi (85’) put India in the lead twice, but Ansor Khabibov (59’) and Muhammadiqbol Davlatov (90+1’) restored parity on both occasions before Muhammadali Azizboev (90+5’) struck the winner late in injury time. India midfielder Ayush Chhetri was sent off 10 minutes into the second half.

In an even start to the game, India arguably had a clearer chance. Winger Mohammed Sanan sent in a cross towards Vinith Venkatesh at the far post. The latter’s side-footed volley, however, lacked direction.