In a highly charged group match at the SAFF Championship, Sunil Chhetri’s brilliance wasn’t enough to secure a victory for India as they were held to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kuwait. The nail-biting encounter showcased both teams’ determination and ended India’s impressive nine-match streak without conceding a goal.
India started the match on a positive note, with Chhetri leading the charge. In the dying moments of the first half, the veteran striker showcased his skill and composure, volleying the ball into the net to put India ahead. This remarkable goal marked Chhetri’s fifth of the tournament and his 24th in 26 SAFF Championship matches.
Despite India’s dominance, the second half witnessed a shift in momentum. Kuwait fought back and intensified their attacks, desperately seeking an equalizer. In the closing minutes of the match, India’s hopes were dashed when Anwar Ali inadvertently scored an own goal, leveling the scoreline.
India’s head coach Igor Stimac’s frustrations boiled over, leading to his dismissal with a red card in the 81st minute. This was the second time Stimac was sent off in the tournament, having received a red card in the match against Pakistan for interfering with a throw-in. The team faced further setbacks as Rahim Ali and Kuwait’s Al Qallaf were also sent off following an altercation on the pitch.
Despite the disappointing result, India finished the group stage tied on seven points with Kuwait. However, Kuwait clinched the top spot in Group A due to a superior goal average. As a result, India will now face Lebanon in an eagerly anticipated semifinal clash, while Kuwait awaits the winner between Bangladesh and Maldives.
The match showcased India’s organized attacking prowess, particularly through their wing play, while Kuwait relied heavily on their left flank. Both teams provided an exhilarating spectacle for fans, with near misses and thrilling moments throughout the match.
This encounter serves as a testament to India’s growing prominence in the SAFF Championship, having displayed an unbeaten streak and impressive defensive resilience. With the stage set for the semifinals, Indian football enthusiasts eagerly await the clash against Lebanon, anticipating a captivating showdown in pursuit of championship glory.
