Picture Credit: Twitter
The Indian football team had an unforgettable evening as they delivered a dominating performance against Hong Kong in the final group stage match of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers 2023. Anwar Ali gave the Men in Blue the perfect start by scoring in the second minute as team India took the early lead at the VYBK Stadium, Kolkata.
Ali pulled off a stunning goal from a short corner as Hong Kong's defence was not anticipating such quick footwork from the Indian player. After a couple of quick passes, Ali strikes the ball into the net. While India was cruising ahead with a lead, the Indian skipper added another feather to his crown as he doubled India's lead just before half-time. Popularly known as India's goal-scoring machine, Sunil Chhetri capitalized on the perfect pass as he controlled the ball well and maintained his composure to strike the ball perfectly with his left foot.
The Indian captain equalled legendary Ferenc Puskas’ goal tally with that goal. Just before halftime, Sunil Chhetri’s goal put India in a dominating position. It was a good pass and Sunil Chettri with a sensational first touch-controlled it well and maintained the composure to strike the goal with his left foot.
While India secured the lead in the first half, the second half proved to be dry before late assaults from Manvir and Pandita cheered Indian fans on the ground. Manvir Singh netted a goal in the 84th minute, whereas, Ishan Pandita grabbed the opportunity late in the game as he netted a goal in the extra time. With that performance, India now finished Group D as toppers. India beat Cambodia 2-0, Afghanistan 2-1, and Hong Kong 4-0.
Check out the videos of all four goals here: