India in winning mode

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The international break has nothing much to do with Indian football, but it has certainly given a good break for our youth and women teams.

The India under-16 colts are enjoying their friendly tour of Dubai, preparing for the final phase of the AFC U-16 tournament to be held later this month.

The youth side defeated Al Kaleej Academy u-17 team 4-1 in a friendly held at Sharjah Stadium with striker Uttam Rai scoring a brace.

The Indian side led 3-0 at half time. Lalramzauva and Vanlalduastanga scored a goal each as India had a fabulous start to its three-match friendly series. The team will play two matches against UAE u-16 team later.

India is clubbed in Group D with Uzbekistan, Syria and China in the final phase that kicks-off in Tehran on September 22. The first match is against Uzbekistan on September 23.

Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team defending the SAFF championship in Colombo has got off to a flyer with 3-0 win against Bangladesh.

Second half goals from midfielder Yumnam Kamala Devi, skipper Oinam Bem Bem Devi and defender Alochana Senapati sealed a comprehensive victory for India.

The Indian eves had a cautious start to the event and after a goalless first period, Kamala Devi opened the scoring in the 64th minutes.

Indian captain Bem Bem Devi made it 2-0 at 76th minute and Senapati’s strike two minutes from end of regulation time completed the rout. India next play hosts Sri Lanka on Sunday.