India handed reality check by ATK Mohun Bagan, lose 1-2 despite Sunil Chhetri strike

Sunil Chhetri returned to action with a delightful strike but it was not enough as India went down 1-2 to Indian Super League side ATK Mohun Bagan in a practice match at the Salt Lake Stadium on Wednesday. Returning to action after a seven-month injury layoff, the 37-year-old India captain was in his element as he utilised a Glan Martins cross to give India a perfect start. But the Indian backline -- minus star centre forward Sandesh Jhingan and the dependable Pritam Kota who played for ATK Mohun Bagan -- crumbled soon after with Liston Colaco and rising youngster Kiyan Nassiri scoring a goal each in the space of seven minutes.

It was a rude reality check for the Igor Stimac-coached side that started as overwhelming favourites in the 2023 Asian Cup qualifiers. The margin of defeat could have been worse as ATKMB missed a flurry of chances with Colaco, David Williams and Kauko squandering easy opportunities. Jhingan also returned to action after sitting out ATKMB's AFC Cup matches last month and played for 10 minutes in the second-half before pulling out after a suspected injury.

The details of the injury are unknown and it remains to be seen whether he will be available for ATKMB's AFC Cup Group league opener against Gokulam Kerala here on May 18. In a keenly-contested match, the 106th ranked India dominated up front before the Mariners seized the momentum with Colaco's strike in the 30th minute. Colaco then set up the winning goal for Nassiri in the 37th minute.