Bengaluru, May 31 -- India suffered a 0-1 defeat at the hands of Uzbekistan at the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence, in the first of two FIFA International Friendlies here.
After a goalless first half, Diyorakhon Khabibullaeva (56') scored the only goal of the match to hand Uzbekistan the win on Friday night.
Keeping true to his words, India head coach Crispin Chettri introduced some fresh blood into the team, handing out three debuts against a strong Uzbekistan side. Attackers Manisha Naik and Malavika debuted from the starting XI, while midfielder Priyadharshini came off the bench in the second half for her first cap.
An even start to the match saw India earn a few corners, while goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu did well to keep th...