What positives can be taken from India U23's campaign in Tajikistan?

The Blue Colts played friendly matches against Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic

As part of their preparations for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers, the India U23 men’s national team travelled to Tajikistan to play two international friendlies, one against Tajikistan and the other friendly against the Kyrgyz Republic.

Under the leadership of Naushad Moosa, India U23 faced the hosts Tajikistan and suffered a 3–2 defeat in a closely contested game, with Suhail Bhat and Parthib Gogoi scoring the two goals. The team showed attacking intent but struggled defensively against a sharp Tajikistan attack.

The Blue Colts play out a cagey 0-0 draw against the Kyrgyz Republic at the Hisor Stadium as they end the Tajikistan Tour. #IndianFootball #IndianFootballTeam #IndiaU23FootballTeam pic.twitter.com/Pnc9PkRljB

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) June 21, 2025

In the second match, India U23 held the Kyrgyz Republic to a goalless draw. Parthib Gogoi, Bikash Yumnam and Pramveer created chances but couldn’t convert the chances into goals. The Blue Colts showcased a little improvement in the defensive unit, but we’re still struggling for consistency in the final third.

The coaching staff made effective use of the India U23 squad, rotating players across positions and ensuring most of the players in the group got game time. This helped in giving key minutes to most of the players without compromising the team balance. This approach from Naushad Moosa not only helped manage workload but also ensured that the players gained valuable game time and exposure.

Positives from the campaign

One of the key takeaways was the attacking intent shown by the India U23 squad. Unlike previous campaigns where India often looked hesitant in the final third, this time there was purpose and energy going forward. Though the conversion rate can improve, the proof that goals were scored and chances were created constantly indicates a step in the right direction.

The overall quality of play was another encouraging aspect of the friendlies. Both games were marked by sharp passing, structured build-up play from the back and even had moments of creative flair. The technical ability of the squad is evident. And it can still be improved.

Decent workout for the India U-23 boys vs Kyrgyz Republic & Tajikistan. No need to judge the players harshly—many were playing at this level for the first time. I hope AIFF can arrange a 20-day overseas camp, along with a couple of friendlies, before the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026…

— Ashish Negi (@7negiashish) June 21, 2025

What changes have to be made for the upcoming matches?

Despite flashes of promise, the Blue Colts fell short in a few important areas. The India U23 players failed to convert the chances in front of the goal, especially against the Kyrgyz Republic.

There was a lack of defensive coordination, and there were repeated errors during the set-pieces proved costly, especially against Tajikistan, where the team conceded most of the goals throughout set pieces.

These are issues that will need immediate improvement and attention ahead of the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers.

While the team showed a promising performance in both fixtures, a lack of match experience was evident in key moments. And without consistent exposure to high-level match scenarios, the improvement of the team will remain a challenge.

A few more friendlies will offer exactly the kind of learning curve the Blue Colts need ahead of a demanding AFC U23 campaign.

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