INDIA vs KUWAIT: Manvir’s Late Strike Propels India to Victory in World Cup Qualifier

INDIA vs KUWAIT: In a gripping FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC qualifiers match at the Jaber al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City, India faced off against Kuwait in a thrilling encounter that ended with the Blue Tigers securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The November 16 clash witnessed a standout performance by Indian striker Manvir, whose 75th-minute goal proved to be the decisive moment in a match that saw its fair share of drama.

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The first half of the game concluded with both teams locked in a goalless draw, setting the stage for an intense second half. As the clock ticked, the tension escalated, reaching its peak in the 75th minute when Manvir seized the opportunity created by Lallianzuala Chhangte’s precise cross. With a swift left-footed shot, Manvir found the back of the net, breaking the deadlock and giving India a crucial 1-0 lead.

The excitement heightened in the final minutes as Kuwait faced a setback with a red card for Faisal Zaid Al-Harbi in the 90+4th minute. Al-Harbi received his marching orders after receiving a second yellow card for a high-footed challenge on Chhangte. Reduced to 10 men, Kuwait valiantly tried to salvage the match but ultimately fell short against a resilient Indian side.

INDIA vs KUWAIT World Cup Qualifiers: Key Moments

The match’s key moments included a noteworthy performance by India’s goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, whose crucial saves ensured India’s clean sheet. The defensive prowess of the Indian team was put to the test, especially during Kuwait’s offensive surges in the second half.

The strategic substitutions made by both teams added an extra layer of intensity to the game. India’s coach Igor Stimac demonstrated tactical acumen by bringing in Rohit and Rahul KP in the dying minutes, replacing Suresh and Sunil Chhetri. These changes aimed to solidify India’s position and control the pace of the game.

The victory marked India’s positive start in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, setting the tone for their journey in the tournament. The significance of securing three points in the opening match cannot be overstated, and the Blue Tigers will look to build on this success in the upcoming qualifiers.

In a post-match statement, Coach Stimac praised his team’s preparation and expressed satisfaction with the performance. He emphasized the importance of starting the qualifiers on a positive note, acknowledging that every point gained or lost could make a significant difference in the long run.

As India relishes this hard-fought victory, the focus now shifts to the next challenges on the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026. With a solid foundation laid in Kuwait, the Blue Tigers aim to continue their winning momentum in the qualifiers, eyeing a spot in the prestigious tournament.

Football fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter of India’s World Cup journey, eager to witness more thrilling moments and exceptional performances from the rising stars of Indian football.