Suryaa Sports Desk: The Indian football team faced a significant defeat in the first friendly match of the international series held in Auckland. The host team, New Zealand, secured a 5-0 victory in front of more than ten thousand spectators.
New Zealand took the lead in the fifth minute following an own goal by India. Jesse Randall extended the lead in the 29th minute and added his second goal ten minutes later, bringing the score to 3-0 by halftime.
In the second half, New Zealand captain Chris Wood scored the fourth goal with a header in the 54th minute. Lachie Bayliss scored his first international goal in the 74th minute to bring the tally to five. Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith saved a penalty kick in the 78th minute.
This series is being held to mark the centenary of sporting relations between India and New Zealand. The second and final friendly match is scheduled for Sunday in Christchurch.
