In the SAFF Championship group match against Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri’s heroics weren’t enough for India to secure a victory, as the match ended in an acrimonious 1-1 draw. Despite the setback, India’s earlier performances ensured their qualification for the semi-finals of the tournament.
Chhetri’s Late First-Half Goal
India started the match strongly, with both teams vying for control. Chhetri’s injury-time strike just before halftime put India on the path to victory. It was a moment of brilliance as he executed a tumbling volley to beat Kuwait goalkeeper Abdul Rahman, giving India a valuable lead. This marked Chhetri’s fifth goal in the tournament and his 24th goal in 26 SAFF championship matches overall.
As the match progressed, both teams displayed their attacking prowess. India looked to consolidate their lead in the second half, but Kuwait remained determined to level the score. Unfortunately, in added time, an own goal by Anwar Ali allowed Kuwait to equalize. This was the first goal India conceded in nine matches, ending their clean sheet streak on a disappointing note.
India Qualifies for Semi-Finals
Despite the draw, India’s earlier performances secured their place in the semi-finals. They will now face Lebanon in a bid to secure a spot in the tournament’s final. The team’s organized attacks and Chhetri’s exceptional form will be crucial as they aim to progress further and compete for the SAFF Championship title.
Igor Stimac’s Red Card
Adding to the eventful match, India’s head coach Igor Stimac received a red card for the second time in the tournament. While this incident occurred during the game, India’s resilience and determination remained intact, allowing them to secure their place in the semi-finals.
In conclusion, although India had to settle for a draw against Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri’s impressive goal and the team’s earlier performances ensured their qualification for the semi-finals of the SAFF Championship. The upcoming clash against Lebanon presents an opportunity for India to showcase their skills and advance towards the tournament’s ultimate prize.
