New Delhi, June 18 -- The India U23 men's national team suffered a 2-3 defeat at the hands of hosts Tajikistan, after being reduced to 10 men in a friendly match at the TALCO Arena, in Tursunzoda, Tajikistan, on Wednesday. The Blue Colts led 1-0 at half-time.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat (33') and Parthib Sundar Gogoi (85') put India in the lead twice, but Ansor Khabibov (59') and Muhammadiqbol Davlatov (90+1') restored parity on both occasions, before Muhammadali Azizboev (90+5') struck the winner late in injury time. India midfielder Ayush Chhetri was sent off 10 minutes into the second half, as per the AIFF official website.

In an even start to the game, India arguably had the clearer chance. Winger Mohammed Sanan sent in a cross towards Vinith...