Manvir Singh’s second-half goal helps India beat Kuwait in memorable fashion in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
The Indian men’s football team started their 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a 1-0 victory over Kuwait at the Jaber Ahmed International Stadium in Kuwait City. After careful defensive play in the first half, Manvir Singh’s goal in the second half ensured all three points. Thursday, November 16, Blue Tigers.
India head coach Igor Stimac surprisingly dropped two regular starters, larianzuelachante The starting XI includes Anirudh Thapa with Rahul Bheke partnering Sandesh Jhingan in defence, with Manvir Singh replacing Chhangte came on the right wing.Additionally, Mumbai City FC midfielder Apuia Ralte made her first start since June, joining Suresh Singh Wangjam in pivot.
The home side took an early lead and the Blue Tigers were content to sit back and look to strike at the break, only for the visitors to have their first clear-cut chance of the game. Sunil Chhetri Around the 20th minute, he shot from the edge of the penalty area and almost missed the goal.
India’s attack came mainly from the flanks, with Manvir Singh looking particularly dangerous on the break. Kuwait, on the other hand, looked more composed but struggled to create anything meaningful.
Half an hour into the game, the two teams had very little chance. The first half ended with a score of 0-0, with both teams having only one shot on target.
India scored in the second half to seal victory and defeat Kuwait
Kuwait head coach Rui Bento made three changes at the start of the second half to boost the team’s intensity and performance levels, with midfielders Ahmed Zanki, Hamad Khalaf and Zaid ·Habi replaces Mobarak Fanene, Mohsen Ghalib and Reda Haney.
A set-piece caused all sorts of trouble for India, but an unmarked Fahad Al-Hajri headed wide from close range. Although Kuwait started the attack, the Blue Tigers held on at the back. Continuously turn danger into safety. Presented by Kuwait.
The game finally got going and with the Chant team about the hour mark, India began to cause trouble from the wings and their pressure eventually paid off as the Blue Tigers took the lead with 15 minutes remaining.
After a quick move in the backcourt, Changte ran from behind the full-back and delivered a precise cross into the penalty area. The two wingers joined forces and Manvir Singh beat his marker and fired the ball into the baseline. Finishing the corner with his weak foot.
After the goal, the Indian team showed tenacious resilience on the back line and eventually defeated the Kuwait team 1-0 away from home. Their next challenge will be against Qatar on November 21 at Kalinga Stadium, while Kuwait will also face Afghanistan at the same venue. sky.
