India vs Afghanistan Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

India lose 1-2 against Afghanistan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Highlights

India lost 1-2 against Afghanistan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match played at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Thursday. The Blue Tigers took the lead in the 12th minute through a penalty converted by Sunil Chhetri, but Afghanistan equalized in the 35th minute through Farshad Noor. Afghanistan then took the lead in the 64th minute through Omid Popalzay.

India started the match brightly and created a few chances in the opening minutes. They were rewarded for their early pressure when Chhetri was brought down in the box by Afghanistan goalkeeper Ovays Azizi. Chhetri stepped up and converted the penalty to give India the lead.

Afghanistan slowly grew into the game and started to create chances of their own. They equalized in the 35th minute when Noor capitalized on a defensive error by India to score from close range. Afghanistan then took the lead in the 64th minute when Popalzay headed home a cross from Noor.

India tried to find an equalizer in the remaining minutes, but they were unable to break down the Afghan defense. The Blue Tigers will now face Hong Kong in their next qualifier match on June 8.

Conclusion

India's defeat against Afghanistan was a disappointing result, but there were some positives to take from the match. The Blue Tigers showed good spirit and determination, and they created a number of chances. They will need to improve their defensive organization and finishing if they want to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.