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The record eight-time champions, India men's football team are currently squaring off against Group A toppers Kuwait in the high-voltage SAFF Championship 2023 final at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. While the visitors took an early lead, the Blue Tigers responded in a thrilling way as forward Lallianzuala Chhangte scored a sensational equaliser to end the first half.
Team India pulled off a sensational comeback and scored a spectacular goal in the 38th minute, which was a brilliant example of teamwork. India left winger Ashique Kuruniyan passed the ball to captain Sunil Chhetri near the box, who dispatched a through ball to midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad into the box. The 26-year-old Samad then produced a magnificent low cross that found sprinting Chhangte, who found the back of the net with his right-footed effort.
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The Blue Tigers win 9th SAFF Championship
After finishing the half with a 1-1 score, both India and Kuwait failed to score a winner in the regulation time as the match entered extra time. A goalless extra time forced a penalty shootout which was eventually won 5-4 by the hosts. The Blue Tigers registered their record ninth SAFF Championship title victory on Tuesday. India skipper Sunil Chhetri ended the tournament as the top scorer with five goals.
Team India will next feature in AFC Asian Cup 2024, where they are placed in Group B alongside Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria. India will play their first match against Australia on January 13 followed by their matches against Uzbekistan and Syria on January 18 and 23 respectively.
