Margao: Russia came from behind to down China 2-1 and finish third in the 1st BRICS U-17 football tournament at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, here today.
China, who were seen defending their citadel for most part of the match, took the lead from a penalty by Tao Qianglong in the 34th minute.
Russia, who were the dominant side, created several chances and equalised through Koleshichenko Kirill (69th) before Substitute Chelidze Georgy scored the winner in the 84th minute.
Playing under hot and humid condition, Russia found it difficult to adjust to the conditions but they started in right earnest as they made inroad and created couple of scoring chances but were wayward in directing their shots on target or failed to beat the rival keeper Qi Yuxi who did well to bring off couple of good saves.
China also came with counter moves and earned a penalty after Huang Cong’s attempt at the goal hit Umiarov Nail’s hand inside the box and referee Tanmoy Dhar pointed to the dreaded spot. Tao Qianglong converted the chance.
Unpreturbed by the set back, Russia kept on attacking especially in the second half and finally got a breakthrough in the 69th minute when Kolesnichenko Kiril’s shot from inside the box deflected rival player and beat leaping keeper Qi Yuxi into the net.
Substitute Chelidze Georgy than scored the winner with a brilliant bi-cycle kick that gave no chance for keeper Yuxi to react under the bar as Russia won the match and finished third.
PTI
