The Indian U23 football team concluded their tour of Tajikistan with a goalless draw against the Kyrgyz Republic at the Hisor Central Stadium on Saturday, June 21, 2025. This followed a narrow 2-3 defeat to the host nation, Tajikistan, earlier in the tour. The two friendlies were part of the team's preparation for the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers later this year and the Asian Games in 2026.
Head coach Naushad Moosa made eight changes to the starting XI from the previous match against Tajikistan. Only defenders Pramveer, Bikash Yumnam, and Abhishek Singh Tekcham retained their places in the lineup. Despite the changes, the Kyrgyz Republic started the match strongly, putting pressure on the Indian defense. However, the Blue Colts gradually found their footing and began to create opportunities through their quick wingers.
The first half saw India gain control of the midfield, with Mohammed Aimen, Shivaldo Singh, and Vibin Mohanan combining well to maintain possession. Parthib Sundar Gogoi had a shot saved in the 38th minute, and his free-kick six minutes later forced a diving save from Kyrgyz Republic's goalkeeper, Chomoev Sultan. Just before halftime, Pramveer had a chance to score with a header from a Vibin Mohanan cross, but the attempt went over the crossbar.
In the second half, Coach Moosa made further changes to the team. The Kyrgyz Republic once again started strongly, but India soon regained their momentum. Substitute Macarton Louis Nickson began to dictate play in the middle of the field, linking up well with Suhail Ahmad Bhat. In the 69th minute, Bhat found the back of the net after being put through by Macarton, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Shortly after, Kyrgyz Republic's Ermekov Baibol tested Indian goalkeeper Sahil with a long-range effort, which Sahil saved comfortably. Macarton and Suhail combined again with 12 minutes left, but Macarton's shot went over the crossbar.
Despite the draw, there were encouraging signs for India. The team displayed defensive solidity and improved team chemistry, especially compared to the match against Tajikistan. Bikash Yumnam led a defense that kept a clean sheet. Goalkeeper Sahil was calm and composed when called into action, while Pramveer and Shivaldo Singh provided energy on the flanks. The midfield, anchored by Vibin Mohanan and supported by Macarton, looked more fluid and structured.
However, the team's inability to convert chances remains a concern. Throughout the match, the Kyrgyz goalkeeper proved to be a tough obstacle, denying India on several occasions. The team also needs to improve its passing accuracy, particularly in the final third, where attacks often broke down due to misplaced passes and poor communication.
Following the two friendly matches in Tajikistan, the India U23 team will return home with valuable lessons. The team's next challenge is the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers in September, where they will aim to secure a spot in the main tournament. They also have the 2026 Asian Games to look forward to, where they will aim to improve on their previous performances. India will face Bahrain U23 on September 3, 2025, for the U23 AFC Asian Cup Qualification.
