India's men's national football team faced a challenging start to their November FIFA window, falling to a 5-0 defeat against New Zealand in an
Returning to the national squad for the first time since June,
New Zealand dominance and Indian resistance
The match began with New Zealand applying immediate pressure, forcing India onto the back foot from the opening whistle. The deadlock was broken in the fifth minute following a scramble inside the penalty area, which resulted in an own goal by Bijoy Varghese. Despite the early setback, Kaith remained active, producing a sharp save to deny a long-range effort from Matthew Garbett shortly after the opener.
As the first half progressed, India began to find a rhythm, with Ryan Williams facilitating play alongside wingers Liston Colaco and Jithin MS. The visitors' most promising opportunity arrived in the 19th minute when a sequence of play involving Varghese and Williams set up Manvir Singh inside the box. However, a timely intervention from New Zealand defender Callan Elliott blocked the striker's attempt, denying India a potential equalizer.
The All Whites maintained control for the remainder of the half, but Kaith continued to frustrate the hosts. His performance included an acrobatic save to deny a header in the 25th minute and a brave challenge to thwart Jesse Randall after rushing off his goal line. Despite these efforts, New Zealand eventually pulled away as Randall secured a brace, while Chris Wood and Lachlan Bayliss also found the back of the net to complete the scoring.
Anirudh Thapa, captaining the side for the first time since 2018, led the team through the difficult fixture. Both nations are scheduled to meet again in Christchurch on Sunday, November 15, for the second encounter of the window.
