In an electrifying display of skill and determination, the Indian national football team, known as the Blue Tigers, emerged victorious in the Intercontinental Cup 2023 securing a 2-0 triumph. The final showdown against Lebanon unfolded at Bhubaneswar’s illustrious Kalinga Stadium, leaving fans spellbound by the sensational performance that unfolded before their eyes. With a flawless defensive record throughout the tournament, India reclaimed the coveted title they had last secured in 2018.
Masterclass Second-Half Performance
India’s triumph was sealed in an electrifying second-half performance. Sunil Chhetri wasted no time and swiftly found the back of the net after the restart, capitalizing on an incisive Indian attack from the right flank. However, the hero of the match, Lallianzuala Chhangte, stole the spotlight 20 minutes later with a clinical tap-in, doubling India’s advantage and leaving the Lebanese side reeling.
Unrelenting Pressure and Creative Brilliance
Right from the kickoff, India asserted their authority, leaving Lebanon struggling to maintain possession and escape their own half. Sunil Chhetri’s pinpoint cross narrowly missed finding Sahal Abdul Samad inside the six-yard box, setting the tone for an intense encounter. Ashique Kuruniyan’s relentless runs down the left wing posed significant challenges for Lebanon’s defense, with one low cross tantalizingly close to reaching Chhetri before a desperate clearance intervened.
Solid Defense and Resolute Goalkeeping
While Lebanon posed occasional threats on the counter, India’s unyielding defense, anchored by Sandesh Jhingan, proved insurmountable. Jhingan’s courageous block denied Lebanon’s captain, Hassan Maatouk, a goal-scoring opportunity, showcasing his defensive prowess. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s safe hands in goal ensured that Lebanon’s long-range attempts were kept at bay, including a powerful strike from Soony Saad just before half-time.
Teamwork and Spectacular Build-Up
The breakthrough India desperately sought arrived early in the second half, encapsulating the spirit of teamwork. Chhetri’s near-missed opportunity was transformed into a magnificent team goal. Lallianzuala Chhangte’s precise pass to Nikhil Poojary was returned with an audacious backheel, and Chhangte’s low cross found Chhetri perfectly positioned to tap the ball past the goalkeeper’s legs.
Roaring Support and Second Goal Delight
Buoyed by the enthusiastic 12,000-strong crowd at the Kalinga Stadium, the Blue Tigers relentlessly pursued their second goal. Jeakson Singh Thounaojam and Sandesh Jhingan came close with headers from two well-delivered corners by Anirudh Thapa. The persistent Indian wave eventually paid off as Chhangte capitalized on a spilled shot by substitute Naorem Mahesh Singh, ensuring a comfortable 2-0 lead for India.
Clinical Game Management and Final Whistle Joy
With their two-goal advantage secured, the Blue Tigers shifted their focus to game management, minimizing risks, and maintaining a solid defensive line. Lebanon’s rare chance to score was squandered in the 80th minute, with Maatouk failing to connect with Mahdi Zein’s cross. As the final whistle echoed through the stadium, India’s celebrations erupted, marking a remarkable triumph in their maiden Intercontinental Cup appearance in Bhubaneswar.
India XI: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Nikhil Poojary, Sandesh Jhingan, Anwar Ali, Akash Mishra, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam (Rohit Kumar 59′), Anirudh Thapa, Sahal Abdul Samad (Rahim Ali 72′), Ashique Kuruniyan (Naorem Mahesh Singh 59′), Sunil Chhetri (C) (Subhasish Bose 90′), Lallianzuala Chhangte (Nandhakumar Sekar 90′).
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