India U23 vs China U23: The Indian U23 team on Saturday came back from behind in the 93rd minute to restore parity against the mighty China PR in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. Just when the fans thought the Blue Colts would at least take a point home, China U23 regained their lead in the dying-minute and won the match 2-1.
The Indian U23 team started on a bright note, creating quite a few chances for themselves. However, their midfield and defence looked shaky as the China PR team came close to scoring on quite a few occasions.
However, both teams were unable to break the deadlock as they went into the tunnel.
The second-half started on a brighter note for China as they looked more menacing. They threatened to break the Indian defence through their passing. The Indian defence was finally broken in the 68th minute when Tao Qianglong scored from the spot after Vibin Mohanan was penalised for a sliding tackle.
The match inched towards the 90th minute with the Blue Colts desperate to score.
However, India managed to level the score in the 92nd minute thanks to an own goal by China. Narender Gehlot took a smart low drive from a corner and the ball hit China’s Hu Hetao before rolling into the net. Just when it seemed the match was heading for a draw, China’s Naibijiang Mohemaiti struck the winning goal in the 96th minute, leaving India a dejected lot.
Some fans were jubilant when India scored the equaliser.
India U23 1-2 China U23: Mohemati’s winner hands Blue Colts…
The team’s narrow loss however didn’t sit well with the fans who blamed the AIFF for their lack of planning regarding the U23 squad.