India U-17 World Cup team lost 1 -2 to Portugal’s Vitoria de Setubal U-17 in their first practice match of the exposure trip at the Jose Mourinho Training Center in Troia, Lisbon on Monday.
In a closely-fought match, the Indian colts matched their opponents, but failed to convert the chances into goals. Though the Indian team dominated possession in the opening minutes of the match, Setubal U-17 created the first goal scoring chance of the match in the 16th minute when they rattled the Indian crossbar.
However, they could take the lead only in the 38th minute after Bruno Ventura scored from a penalty kick that was awarded for a reckless Indian tackle inside the box. The half-time scoreline read 1-0 in favour of Setubal U- 17.
After the break, the Indian colts upped the ante and pressed for the equaliser. Aniket Jadhav’s shot in the 47th minute went inches over the bar and a minute later, he shot narrowly missed the post.
The Indians finally managed to equalise in the 67th minute with Jadhav successfully converting from the penalty spot. India tried to take the lead but could not find the net, and were punished late in the game as Setubal U-17 struck in the 85th minute to seal off the match. India U-17 will next face Belenenses on April 25 in Jamor, Portugal.