India beats Nepal to qualify got the SAFF Championship semi-finals
In spite of a lacklustre performance in the first half, the Indian team exhibited remarkable determination in the second half to turn the game around.
The opening goal came through an excellent combination play between Mahesh Naorem and the team captain, Sunil Chhetri in the 61st minute.
Naorem made a brilliant run down the left flank, delivering a precise ground ball to Chhetri, who calmly slotted it into the net. The duo continued to wreak havoc on the opposition defense, with Chhetri returning the favour for the second goal.
In the 69th minute Sahal unleashed a perfectly weighted through ball, splitting the defense, and finding Chhetri in a scoring position. However, Chhetri's shot sailed over the crossbar. Fortunately, the ball found its way back to Naorem, who made no mistake in converting the chance, ensuring India's victory and scoring his first goal for the nation.
The Indian team managed to emerge victorious and extended their incredible streak of keeping eighth clean sheets even in the absence of their Head Coach Igor Stimac on the sidelines.