India U-16 hold DPR Korea to a 1-1 draw

India earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw against DPR Korea in their final match of the four-nation tournament at Wei Nan City in China on Saturday.

After a goalless first half, DPR Korea took the lead in the 75th minute. An alert Indian attack responded immediately and earned a penalty two minutes later. Vikram Pratap Singh stepped up to bring the scores level.

Bibiano Fernandes' side gave their opponents an early scare when Givson's effort flew wide in the 13th minute. The team soon settled down and conceded possession to DPR Korea, seemingly content to sit back and launch counter-attacks.

Both sides had a chance each before a drab first-half came to a close. Givson forced a save off the DPR Korea goalkeeper and his counterpart had a shot saved by the woodwork, much to the relief of Indian custodian Lalbiakhlua Jongte. 

DPR Korea opened the scoring in the 75th minute, much to the disappointment of the Indian defence which had conceded late goals in their match against Thailand as well. However, the response from the Indian frontline was immediate.

Indian Colts were awarded a penalty in the 77th minute, allowing Vikram Pratap Singh to step up and coolly deliver from the spot.

India and DPR Korea shared the spoils at the full-time whistle. The U-16 team had earlier registered defeats to China U-17 (0-1) and Thailand U-16 (1-3).

India U-16's starting lineup: Lalbiakhlua Jongte (GK), Shabas Ahammed Moothedath, Gurkirat Singh, Bikash Yumnam, Moirangthem Thoiba Singh, Ricky John Shabong, Givson Singh Moirangthem, Bekey Oram, Vikram Pratap Singh, Ridge Melvin DeMello, Rohit Danu.