Asian Cup 2019 Qualifiers | Sunil Chhetri shines as India beats Kyrgyz Republic 1-0

Indian football team beat Kyrgyz Republic in a Group A match of AFC Asian Cup 2019 Qualifiers (Third Round) yesterday. The match was organised in Sree Kanteerava Stadium and the host team didn't disappoint their fans as they controlled the match throughout.

In the first half, both the teams had numerous chances but were unable to convert any of them into into a goal. 24 mins into the second half, Chhetri split open the defence and gave a beautiful pass to Jeje Lalpekhlua, who immediately returned the ball to Chhetri, and the captain didn’t miss the chance to complete the winning shot for India. The guests tried their best to level the game, but the Indian players were firm in their defence.

In their earlier Qualifier match on 28th March, the men in blue defeated Myanmar 1-0. After yesterday's win, India now have 6 points from 2 games and stand on top of the Group A of the Third Round of Qualifiers. With two teams qualifying from each group, India have significantly strengthened their chances to play in the 2019 tournament, which will be held in UAE.

Also, India's win over Kyrgyz Republic is their seventh official international win in a row and one hopes that they will continue their good form for the upcoming matches. India's next match is against Macau, an away game, on September 5.