India won their 8th SAFF Championship title while Sunil Chhetri leveled up with the iconic Lionel Messi after scoring his 80th international goal. This inspired India to beat Nepal 3-0 and win the SAFF championship.
Although the first half of the game did not see any goals, India was able to score 3 goals in the second half , thanks to Sunil Chhetri (49 minutes), Suresh Singh (50 minutes), Sahal Abdul Samad (90 minutes).
Sunil Chhetri became the second highest goal-scorer in international football among active players, as he equalled Messi with his goal. Suresh Singh and Sahal Abdul Samad added to the goals making India successful in their triumph. This title was a much needed win for India after the series of average games.
Although India managed to dominate ball possession in the first half of the game, they were unable to score a goal. Chhetri was able to score the first goal for India just minutes into the second half, and Suresh made it 2-0.
This is India’s first title under coach Igor Stimac, who was criticized for not winning enough games recently. Stimac’s efforts started seeing results when they were needed most, in this edition of the regional tournament. This was just the thing for which the fans were eagerly waiting. Stimac is the third foreign coach to win the title for India after Jiri Pesek (1993) and Stephen Constantine (2015).
Chhetri broke the deadlock for India with a header goal and barely a minute later Suresh landed another one. Although they got many chances thereafter, India was unable to score another goal until Sahal Abdul Samad found the back of the net with his efforts.
Although India got many chances in the first half, it was not until the second half that they were able to score a goal. There were many chances in the second half as well, but only 3 of them were successful. India was also able to block any advances from the Nepal team.
As the statistics favoured India, they were able to approach the game with a psychological advantage. Although they had a troubled start, India ended it in style with the first time finalists. This was the 12th final in the 13 editions of the game for India as India won their 8th SAFF championship.
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