Published 13 hours ago • loading... • Updated 4 hours ago
All Whites Outclass India in Series Opener
On Thursday, the Indian men's national football team suffered a 0-5 defeat against New Zealand in their first-ever international friendly in Auckland at the Go Media Arena.
Head coach Khalid Jamil acknowledged preparation challenges including a seven-and-a-half-hour time difference and limited training before the fixture, stating, "The result, yes, it is my mistake."
Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made several crucial saves, including blocking a second-half penalty, while New Zealand's goals came from Bijoy Varghese's own goal, Jesse Randall's brace, Chris Wood, and Lachlan Bayliss.
Captain Anirudh Thapa stressed greater discipline and communication, saying, "We have to take responsibility as a team. We know we can do better, and we have to show that tomorrow."
The Blue Tigers will face New Zealand on Sunday, November 15, at the 25,000-seat One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch, marking the venue's first-ever international football match.