India U23 vs Indonesia U23: Top three players from the campaign

India U23 claimed a win and a draw in two matches against Indonesia.

The Indian U23 football team has continued to show moments of brilliance with their performance after the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. The Blue Colts started their two-match friendly tour of Indonesia, which ended with a victory on 10th October and a draw on 13th October

The Indonesian Football team dominated the first twenty minutes of the second fixture. But in the 46th minute, Korou Singh managed to break the deadlock and led the game until Dory Tri scored for Indonesia from a free kick.

Even though the Indonesian side ultimately managed to equalise and clinch a point, the match was a true display of grit from the India U23 football team. Indonesia, with the advantage of being the home team, was forced to put in extra efforts to fight against the confident Blue Colts.

From Ricky to Harsh, Saheef to Bikash, and from Ayush to Suhail, the Indian side displayed a commendable performance against Indonesia. However, a few players stepped up to the occasion and stood head and shoulders above the others.

3. Harsh Palande

Harsh Palande has continued his impressive form since the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. He used his physicality to put the opposition players under pressure. His work rate was impressive and showed his skills driving forward, despite being a defender

Time and again, he put his body on the line, blocking shots and intercepting passes that could’ve turned the game on its head. In possession, he exuded a cool confidence, finding the midfield with crisp passes that sparked transitions from defence to attack.

2. Suhail Ahmad Bhat

The 20-year-old forward made his comeback into the team after missing out on the chance to be a part of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. His performance on the return proved that he, in fact, was the most clinical goal-scorer on the team.

Suhail Bhat shines with a brace 🎯🔥#IDNIND #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/0x7z5eNui6

— Indian Football (@IndianFootball) October 11, 2025

Both goals that India scored in the first friendly came from Suhail in the first half itself. The game was a showcase of brilliance from the youngster on how a striker can execute things on the pitch. Due to his pace and skill, Suhail is the primary contender for the number 9 position on the team.

Also Read: Suhail Bhat: Missing piece of jigsaw puzzle that cost India historic AFC U23 Asian Cup qualification

1. Muhammed Suhail

Muhammed Suhail started on the left wing in the first fixture. Despite a change in position, he continued to perform well. The Kerala forward was electric on the left as he made some great runs in the first half and made it difficult for the opposition defenders.His deliveries into the final third were on point. There were moments where his decision-making wasn’t upto the mark, but playing as a left-winger, it was a learning curve for him.

In the second game against Indonesia, he was constantly trying to create chances but failed to capitalize. Despite competing against the stronger Indonesian defenders, he managed to cause them consistent problems, forcing them to put in extra work.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.