In a thrilling match filled with drama and intensity, the Indian football team secured a spot in the semi-finals of the SAFF Championship 2023 after a 1-1 draw against Kuwait on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. The match showcased the talents of both teams and kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
India started the game aggressively, putting pressure on Kuwait with their pressing in the final and middle thirds of the field. Naorem Mahesh Singh, who had already scored his first international goal in the previous match, caused havoc from the left wing. In the fifth minute, he delivered a perfect cross to Akash Mishra, whose attempt narrowly missed Sunil Chhetri’s outstretched foot.
Set-pieces proved to be a threatening weapon for India throughout the match. Anwar Ali had an opportunity from a corner, but his weak shot was easily blocked by the Kuwait defense. Despite facing setbacks, India’s confrontational approach continued to trouble Kuwait.
Kuwait gradually found their rhythm and had their first real chance in the 20th minute when Shabaib Al-Khaldi’s shot sailed over the crossbar. Five minutes later, goalkeeper Amrinder Singh made a spectacular save to deny Mohammad Abdullah’s close-range effort. India, however, remained dangerous from dead-ball situations.
Just before halftime, Sunil Chhetri showcased his brilliance once again. Positioned strategically against Kuwait’s zonal marking, Chhetri volleyed the ball into the net from a corner, giving India the lead. It was a reminder of Chhetri’s ability to capitalize on even the smallest opportunity.
After the break, Kuwait came out with a sense of urgency, but India remained solid in their defensive third. Amrinder Singh continued to impress with a fantastic save, tipping Al-Khaldi’s free-kick over the crossbar. India’s attack also posed a threat, with Ashique Kuruniyan coming close to scoring from a tight angle.
Jeakson Singh Thounaojam had a couple of chances to extend India’s lead, but his attempts were blocked or narrowly missed the target. Sandesh Jhingan showcased his defensive prowess with a crucial tackle to deny Al-Khaldi a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
As the game entered its final ten minutes, India’s head coach Igor Stimac was shown a red card after an argument with the referee, marking his second sending-off of the tournament. Substitute Rohit Kumar had a golden opportunity to secure the win for India but failed to convert Udanta’s low cross.
Tempers flared after Stimac’s dismissal, resulting in a scuffle on the pitch and red cards for Hamad Al-Qallaf and Rahim Ali of Kuwait. However, in a cruel twist of fate, India’s seven-match clean-sheet run came to an end. Anwar Ali’s attempt to clear a seemingly harmless cross from Abdullah Al-Bloushi resulted in an own goal, equalizing the score in injury time.
Despite the disappointment, the Indian team can hold their heads high. The passionate crowd at the Kanteerava Stadium showed their unwavering support, chanting louder than ever to demonstrate their pride in the team’s fighting spirit. India may have been unlucky not to secure the win, but their journey in the SAFF Championship 2023 continues as they advance to the semi-finals.
