Yupia, April 1 -- The India U23 men's national team went down 0-1 against Tajikistan in the deciding fixture of the U23 Tri-Nation Championship 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, on Tuesday, according to All India Football Federation (AIFF).

A first-half goal by Tajikistan midfielder Khaitov Azizbek (9') proved to be the difference as the Blue Colts, despite creating a number of chances and applying sustained pressure, were unable to find the equaliser.

With this result, Tajikistan clinched the U23 Tri-Nation Championship with two wins from two matches, maintaining clean sheets in both outings. India finished second with one win, while Bhutan ended third without any points.

The Blue Colts began on the front f...