Tajikistan U23 claimed a narrow 3-2 victory over India U23 in an entertaining international friendly on June 18, 2025. The match was a seesaw battle, with the lead changing hands before the home side finally emerged victorious. India started strongly and took an early lead, but Tajikistan fought back to level before halftime. The hosts then went ahead early in the second half, only for India to equalize almost immediately from the kickoff. The decisive goal came with about fifteen minutes remaining, as Tajikistan scored from a well-rehearsed free-kick routine. India pushed for another equalizer but could not find one, giving Tajikistan a hard-fought win in their preparation for upcoming qualifiers.