In the final Group A match of the Asian Games 2023, the Indian men’s football team secured a spot in the round of 16 by holding Myanmar to a 1-1 draw at the Xiaoshan Sports Centre Stadium in Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China. The point earned India a second-place finish in the group, accumulating four points from three games. Myanmar also had four points but took the third position due to a goal difference tiebreaker (India – 3, Myanmar – 2). The group was won by hosts China, who gathered seven points.
The Indian side, managed by Igor Stimac and ranked 102nd in FIFA Rankings, will now face Saudi Arabia, the runner-up in Group B, in the pre-quarterfinals on Thursday.
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The match between India and Myanmar began with both teams competing fiercely for possession in midfield. As the game progressed, Myanmar increased the pressure on the Indian defense with long balls into the box.
However, India took the lead unexpectedly in the 24th minute. Rahim Ali was fouled in the box by a Myanmar player, resulting in a penalty awarded by the referee. Captain Sunil Chhetri calmly stepped up and slotted the ball past Myanmar goalkeeper Zin Nyi Nyi Aung, giving India a 1-0 advantage.
Myanmar responded to the goal by pushing more players forward in search of an equalizer. Still, the Indian defense, marshaled by veteran center-back Sandesh Jinghan, held firm and repelled any threats. The first half ended with India in the lead, 1-0.
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The second half began with India on the front foot, as halftime substitute Gurkirat Singh and Rahim Ali had two chances to extend India’s lead, but they were unable to beat Myanmar’s goalkeeper.
Myanmar continued to exert pressure on India’s defense and managed to level the score with a quarter of the match remaining. Substitute Yan Kyaw Htwe scored with a header, making it 1-1.
Following Myanmar’s goal, the Indian team defended resolutely and held on for the draw, securing their place in the knockout stages.
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