India U17 men’s football team secured a 4-2 victory over FC Spartak Moscow in their third friendly match of the ongoing exposure tour in Turkey at the Fanatic Tour Serik Sport Centre in Antalya on Sunday.
The win marked the first success of the tour for the young side, who had earlier suffered two defeats against the Turkey U17 national team.
India took control of the match in the first half with Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam opening the scoring in the 31st minute. The second half saw a quick surge as Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam (57’) and Washington Singh Ngangom (61’) struck in quick succession to extend the lead to 3-0.
Spartak Moscow reduced the margin in the 65th minute, but Md Aimaan Bin restored India’s three-goal cushion in the 82nd minute. The Russian side scored again from the penalty spot in the 86th minute, but India held firm to close the contest 4-2.
The friendly was played behind closed doors as part of India’s preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, scheduled in May. India are drawn in Group D alongside Uzbekistan, Australia and DPR Korea.
Earlier in the tour, India endured a 1-6 loss against Turkey in Manavgat, Antalya. Turkey surged ahead early and built a 5-0 lead by halftime. India managed a consolation goal in the second half through Denny Singh Wangkhem, but the hosts added another late goal to seal the result.
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