New Delhi, April 23: The Indian U-14 National Team went down to a strong Iran outfit 1-3 in their Group D opening match of the AFC U-14 Championship at the Samen Al Aemeh Stadium in Mashad, Iran on Tuesday (April 23, 2013).

India surged ahead in the 5th minute of the match through Jitendra’s goal. But the hosts equalised 14 minutes later courtesy a Mahdi Mohammedyari effort. Mehrdad Zarei then  gave Iran the lead in the 24th minute.

Iran lead 2-1 at halftime.

Zabihollah Kohkan sealed the issue for Iran post the breather when he  netted the third goal in the 53rd minute.

India play Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday (April 24, 2013).