AFC U-17 Asian Cup: Thokchom’s goal helps India hold Vietnam on par in football championship

Pathum Thani. Malemgamba Thokchom scored as India held Vietnam to a 1-1 draw in their opening Group D match of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Football Championship, here on Saturday. Vietnam took the lead in the closing moments of the first half through Long Vu’s goal but left back Thokchom gave India the equalizer and a point in the 69th minute. India will take on Uzbekistan and Japan in their next two group matches. In the other group match, Uzbekistan held Japan to a 1-1 draw.

The young Indian team, despite a cautious start, remained in control of the contest.The team kept possession of the ball for longer periods and created several chances to score. Vanlalpeka Guite and Lalpekhlua Ralte’s free kick attempts were saved by Vietnam defenders. Aakash Tirkey made a good move and went close to the goal, taking two defenders but could not put the ball in the goal. Long Vu gave Vietnam the lead late in the first half.

Long Wu had a chance to double the lead but his header hit the side bar in injury time. In the second half, India made a series of moves and Thokchom scored from long range to equalize for India. India had a chance to take the lead in injury time when captain Korou Singh’s cross failed to clear the target by T Gangte. On the rebound, the ball reached Omang Dodum but his shot was wide of the target.