India stun Argentina in U20 football tournament
VALENCIA — India notched up one of their most memorable football triumphs when the country’s under-20 team stunned traditional giants Argentina 2-1 despite being reduced to 10 men in a pulsating contest at the COTIF Cup here.
Deepak Tangri (4th minute) and Anwar Ali (68’) were the stars for the Indian U-20 team on Sunday night as the Floyd Pinto-coached side scripted a historic result against the six-time U-20 world champions, coached by 2006 World Cupper Lionel Scaloni and former midfield star Pablo Aimar.
It was a massive boost for Pinto’s side, which had lost 0-2 to Murcia before going down 0-3 to Mauritania. They were held to a goalless draw by Venezuela in their previous match in the tournament.
“This victory will definitely earn Indian Football more respect in the world of football. It opens up a window of opportunity to test ourselves against the best in the World on a regular basis,” Pinto said after the match.
“It’s unbelievable! I am a very proud Indian today. This win is a testament to the efforts and belief of the All India Football Federation in moving forward towards developing the youth of the country.
“We have a renewed belief that with the right support and exposure we are capable to compete with the best teams in the world,” he added.
Tangri gave India a perfect start as he headed the ball at the back of the net from a corner taken by Ninthoiganba Meetei in the fourth minute. —