India vs Kuwait – FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier : In a riveting FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC qualifiers match at the Jaber al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City, India showcased grit and brilliance, securing a crucial 1-0 victory against Kuwait. Manvir Singh’s solitary goal in the 75th minute propelled the Blue Tigers to a triumphant start in the second round of World Cup Qualifiers.
Let’s have a look into the match highlights : India vs Kuwait – FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
The defining moment of the match arrived in the 75th minute when Manvir Singh, with a left-footed finesse, connected with a precise Lallianzuala Chhangte cross. The ball found the back of the net, sealing India’s win and earning three crucial points in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
The game took a dramatic turn in the 90th minute when Al-Harbi of Kuwait received his second yellow card, resulting in a red card. Reduced to 10 players, Kuwait faced an uphill battle in the dying moments of the match.
- 47′ Close Call: Kuwait came close to scoring early in the second half with a free-kick. Alhajeri’s header narrowly missed the target, hitting the roof of the net. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu looked beaten.
- 75′ GOAL! Manvir Strikes: Lallianzuala Chhangte’s blistering pace set up an excellent cross, met flawlessly by Manvir Singh’s first-time shot, breaking the deadlock and securing India’s lead.
- 83′ Kuwait’s Late Surge: With time running out, Kuwait shifted gears, adopting an aggressive style of play in pursuit of an equalizer. The Al Azraqs unleashed a ‘kitchen-sink’ football approach.
- 90+4′ Red Card for Al-Harbi: The tension escalated as Al-Harbi received his second yellow card, resulting in a red card. Kuwait ended the match with 10 players on the field.
Coach Igor Stimac’s strategic substitutions played a crucial role in the game. Thapa and Colaco were brought in, adding fresh energy to the squad, while Chhangte and Mahesh made way. Akash Mishra’s injury scare added suspense to the match, but the Blue Tigers held their ground.
In a nail-biting encounter, India’s victory against Kuwait sets a positive tone for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying campaign. Manvir Singh’s goal, coupled with resilient defending and strategic substitutions, showcases the team’s determination. As the Blue Tigers celebrate this hard-fought win, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the next chapter of India’s journey in the quest for World Cup glory.
